Spotlight on Talent – Jodie Leonard

Studied: Level 2 Skills for Further Study (Pre-Access) followed by Access to Social Work
Progression:  BA Social Work at University of Birmingham

After 17 years working in an accounts office and then taking voluntary redundancy, Jodie Leonard was ready to pursue a long-held ambition of going to university and retraining for a career in social work.

“I made the decision to re-train as a social worker because I wanted a career that will help to make a difference to people’s lives,” said Jodie.  “I live in a poverty- stricken area and see the need for this help daily.”

Jodie’s Walsall College student journey began with a Skills for Further Study course designed to provide learners with a grounding knowledge of humanities and social science, along with essay writing, English, maths and oral communication skills.

According to her lecturers, she showed great determination, focus and an unfaltering desire to progress and be a positive role model to her family.  Her excellent grades let to her being offered degree course places at many universities.

“I can’t thank the staff enough for their expertise; sharing their knowledge to ready me for university,” Jodie added.