At 55, Catherine felt her age would be a barrier to finding a job. She thought employers would be looking for younger people with more digital skills. This barrier had an impact on Catherine’s confidence and she wasn’t sure whether she should even start our Back to Work course she had seen advertised.

Here Catherine tells us how after contacting Jane, she soon realised that not only was she the right fit for the course but now recognises how much she has to offer, is thriving in her new role and is an ambassador for mid-life women!

“My background is in publishing, working as an advertising secretary and then I went on to become a Production Manager. I had been furloughed and then made redundant due to the pandemic.

I had been following Successful Mums online for a while via their social media platforms and had seen their Back to Work & Digital Skills course advertised, it sounded just like what I was looking for. However, I was a little unsure if they could help due to my age. I contacted them and was immediately put at ease and quickly reassured that they were an inclusive and welcoming training provider, who helped all mums, no matter what their age. This was so encouraging I decided to enrol.

I completed a self-assessment tool to identify the skills I already had, that employers would be looking for. I hadn’t realised just how many of my skills were transferrable. Our Tutor, Georgina who I could not praise highly enough, she was extremely professional and really approachable. She set us tasks and goals to complete each week. Adding these newfound skills to my CV gave me the confidence to apply for a role I previously wouldn’t have applied for.

Georgina supported me through the interview process and gave great tips and advice. I was so excited to hear the news I had got the job! I am now working at Silverback Publishing Ltd, as a Commercial Manager.  As a publishing company they own magazines and run them and my role is to sell the advertising, chase the artwork and to do the flat plans and upload the artwork to the printers. It’s great!

I think the Founder, Jane Knight runs an excellent company that fully supports all mums regardless of their age. With the help of her excellent colleagues, everyone is made to feel welcome and part of the group and you know there is always help there if you need it, nothing was too much trouble.

The course has definitely changed my life.  It has helped me to believe in myself and to become more confident, I would certainly recommend this training to my friends. For anyone looking to return to work, my top tip would be to make the time; believe you are important enough to find a way to allocate that time for your personal development.  The training is so rewarding and will make you feel good once completed so it’s a win, win situation as your family will also enjoy your happiness!

Not only have I have gained confidence and a qualification but also a job I love!

I would just like to say a huge thank you to everybody involved, for their help, kindness and support.  I am truly grateful!”

Do you think your age is a barrier to finding work? Get in touch and apply for one of our courses HERE!