Employment Academy Classroom Assistant Success in Comber
Liudmyla’s Journey to success with People 1st and Ards & North Down Labour Market Partnership
Employment Academy Classroom Assistant Success in Comber A Fresh Start in a New Country
When Liudmyla first joined People 1st, she was navigating one of the most challenging times in her life.
On maternity leave, living in a new country, and still building confidence in her English, she faced uncertainty about how to begin her journey into employment in Northern Ireland.
“I didn’t know how to write a CV, how to prepare for interviews, or even where to look for a job.”
That all changed when she enrolled in an Employability Skills Academy delivered by People 1st on behalf of Ards and North Down Borough Council. After completing her training, Liudmyla successfully secured a classroom assistant job in Newtownards, working in a local primary school in Comber.
Building Confidence Through Support
From her very first session, Liudmyla began to feel a shift.
With guidance from tutor Frankie Maguire, she developed not only practical job-seeking skills but also the confidence to believe in her own potential.
“Frankie is an incredibly kind person and a true professional. Our sessions were always engaging and informative.”
Through the programme, Liudmyla learned:
How to write a professional CV
How to prepare for interviews
How to present herself with confidence
A mock interview became a turning point—helping her discover a new career direction.
Discovering a Career Path with the support of the employment academy Ards and North Down
It was during this process that Liudmyla realised she wanted to work as a classroom assistant.
With continued support, she progressed onto a short preparation course tailored specifically for this role.
Through People 1st, she gained:
Paediatric First Aid certification
Level 2 Safeguarding training
Practical knowledge for working in a school environment
“This programme helped me feel more confident and gave me useful skills and knowledge.”
From Training to Employment
The support didn’t stop when the course ended.
Through the Academies programme, Liudmyla was connected with real job opportunities in her local area-opportunities she hadn’t been able to access on her own.
With the help of Maria from the People 1st Academy team, she applied for a role at St Mary’s Primary School in Comber.
“Maria helped me submit my CV and arranged my interview with the school principal.”
Shortly after, Liudmyla secured the role. This new opportunity came through a People 1st employment academy in Ards and North Down. It has been life-changing for Liudmyla.
Thriving in a New Role
Now working as a classroom assistant, Liudmyla has found both purpose and happiness in her career.
“Working in a school brings me great joy. It is rewarding to know that I am helping children learn and develop.”
What started as uncertainty has turned into confidence, independence, and a fulfilling career path.
“Without the People 1st programme, I don’t think I would have secured a job so quickly.”
Ongoing Support That Makes a Difference
Even now, Liudmyla continues to feel supported by People 1st.
“I still feel supported, and I’m very glad I chose this journey.”
She now recommends the programme to others—especially those starting from scratch or lacking confidence.
Thinking About Your Next Step?
If you’re based in Ards & North Down and looking for support into employment, our fully funded Academies could be your starting point.
👉 Gain skills 👉 Build confidence 👉 Connect with real job opportunities
We currently have a waiting list open for all council areas as we await release of the next round of funding. If you are interested in applying for a place, please leave your contact information on the applicable list below: Employment Academy Waiting List: https://forms.gle/ZJ9LL1rnMo72m45T6
Employment Academies in your local council area
Check with your local Labour Market Partnership to find out more about opportunities in YOUR council area. If you are a resident of Ards and North Down you can find out more here:
