Anthony Mc Nally- Health and Social Care Employment Academy.
How taking part in an Employment Academy changed Anthonys outlook and career path
Before I came to the academy, my previous employment was working as part of the kitchen staff in various restaurants and kitchens. It was actually my sister who helped me get my first job as she was a head chef, so I think I fell into that sector where I worked for several years. I worked in restaurants throughout college as I was studying construction, which I thought it was something I was passionate about, but after several years I decided to choose a different career path.
What got you onto Academy?
I seen an ad on Facebook for an opportunity to take part in an academy that People 1st were running. At this point in time I was struggling with employment as I didn’t want to work in catering and I was no longer passionate about construction. I seen the opportunity to better myself and I took it. I didn’t know what to expect from the academy or where it was going to get me, but I’m so thankful I went for it as it opened my eyes to a sector and it helped me develop the confidence I needed to find a job that I am passionate about.
Did you enjoy the Academy (What did you find the most useful?)
The academy was very enjoyable- it was nice getting to know people and interacting with them as there was activities we all took part in. I think that was the best part of the academy, nobody was left in the dark, everyone was working together everyone had to take part. We all interacted with one another and got to know one another which was a great confidence booster.
How did you find the interview process, (were you nervous?)
The interview process not going to lie was nerve wrecking for myself especially because I was way out of practice because any job I went for in the past there was no interview process it was trial based. Although once I sat down and got talking I felt more at ease and it also helped that the interviewers were coming to us at the academy also the guidance of Jonny and Ruth really put your mind at ease as they both assured everyone their interview would be fine and that we knew what to say just need to be calm.
How long have you been working?
I’ve been working in Park Manor Nursing Home for six months I have really enjoyed my time since I’ve been there and I hope to further progress my career in the care sector.
How has it been going?
It has been challenging, as I expected it to be, as I am new to this sector. I find that since I’ve worked at Park Manor I have gained more confidence and I’m confident in what I’m doing. It was difficult working during the covid outbreak as I am new to this sector and was not expecting to start work during a global pandemic although I got through it and I’m all the more educated for the situation
Has it been what you expected?
It has been what I expected and more as it is not an easy job. It is a job I feel passionate about as I am caring for the elderly- there is some hard days but it is a brilliant sector and I am so privileged to be a part of the caring sector.
What is next?
For me my next step would be to further my education, so I would like to do my Level 3 in Health and Social Care. After a year or two, I hope to go on to take the role as senior care worker then down the line I would like to study nursing to further my career and get me higher up the ladder.
