Apprenticeship in care meant John could have a career he could ‘bank’on after being made redundant

When John Peachy, 41, from Dovercourt, was made redundant from his job with a large banking company he took the opportunity to retrain towards a career as a carer, and with help and support from Vocational Training Services, part of The Nova Partnership for Apprenticeships and Skills, Essex’s largest provider of apprenticeships, achieved an NVQ level 3 in Health and Social Care (Children and Young People).

John had been working in banking for 19 years and at the age of 41 found himself redundant. He decided to become a house husband to look after his three children and enjoyed it so much that he applied for a job as a carer, working initially with children and young people with varying learning and care needs.

This led to an opportunity for work based learning through Vocational Training Services in Westcliff on Sea, Essex. John’s commitment meant that he competed his level 3 qualification in record time, and he says he’s never been happier at work, which now involves mainly working with adults.

John said: “I knew that I didn’t want to go back into banking. I wanted to work locally to avoid the commute and do something worthwhile. I’ve proved that you’re never too old to learn and I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved.”

It’s a family affair

John’s success is also proving inspirational to another member of his family. His daughter, Kim, 21 is so impressed that she has started the same NVQ course to gain the same qualification.