After surgery left Noel unable to return to his previous role, he found himself looking for a new direction. With a long-standing interest in working with children through coaching kids’ football, he decided to take the first step towards a career in a school setting.
That step led him to the Ards and North Down Employability Academy, delivered by People 1st and supported by Ards and North Down Labour Market Partnership.
We are delighted to share this Employability Academy success story and how today, Noel is working in St Comgall’s, Bangor, in a role he genuinely loves – supporting children and making a real difference every day.
Taking the First Step towards Employability Academy Success
Speaking about why he joined the programme, Noel said:
“I decided to join the People 1st employability scheme as I was out of work following surgery, which meant I could no longer continue in my previous job. I coach kids’ football and have always wanted to work with children, so it felt like the right step for me.”
Like many people considering a career change, Noel initially felt uncertain about stepping into a completely new environment. However, through the Employability Academy, he was able to gain practical knowledge, guidance and support that helped him feel ready for the next stage of his journey. For Noel, this was more than just training. It was the support he needed to believe that a new career was possible.
Building Confidence for Work in a School Environment
Throughout the programme, Noel developed a strong understanding of what working in a school setting involves, including classroom routines, supporting children with different needs and the responsibilities of the role.
Just as importantly, the programme helped build his confidence and belief in his own abilities.
“The training I received was very informative, and the mentors were always on hand to help with any questions. The programme gave me the confidence to feel ready to work in a school. I developed a good understanding of what a typical school day looks like, the different needs children may have and, most importantly, the confidence that I could succeed and excel in the role.”
From the Employability Academy into Work
With help from his work coach, Maria, Noel received support with his CV, job applications and preparing for the next step. He was then contacted by St Comgall’s in Bangor for an informal chat with the principal.
Thanks to the confidence he had gained through the programme, Noel felt ready.
“My journey was very straightforward, thanks to my amazing work coach, Maria, who helped with my CV and even supported me in applying for jobs. I was contacted by St Comgall’s for an informal chat with the principal and, with the training behind me, I felt confident enough to show I was ready for employment in a school. I was initially offered a six-week contract, which has now been extended into a rolling contract. I absolutely love my job and only wish I had taken this step years ago.”
This makes Noel’s journey a brilliant Employability Academy success story, showing how the right support can help someone move from uncertainty into meaningful employment.
Making a Difference Every Day
Noel now works in a role where he can use his natural strengths and passion for supporting young people.
“The thing I love most about working in a school is knowing I’m making a difference in a child’s life. The child I support has made excellent progress throughout the year and it gives me great pride to know I’ve played a part in that.”
He also believes the experience has helped him grow in confidence and self-belief.
“This experience has given me real belief in myself – that I can do the job and do it to the best of my ability. At the beginning, it was nerve-wracking and I did question myself, but once I settled in and got used to the routines, everything fell into place.”
Support from People 1st
Noel credits the support he received from People 1st as a major part of his Employability Academy success.
“The support I received from People 1st was exceptional. Maria was like a fairy godmother – she sprinkled a little magic and made everything feel easier. Any time I needed advice, she was there.”
Maria Baker Ames from People 1st said:
Noel’s journey through the Academy has been a real success story. His attitude has been outstanding from the onset, he was motivated, open to learning and ready to push himself out of his comfort one and progress into the learning zone!.
This employability support initiative proves its value by not only developing skills, but by unlocking confidence and potential; something Noel has demonstrated every step of the way! It has played a key role in building his confidence and capabilities, highlighting just how impactful programmes like this are in supporting individuals to take meaningful steps towards employment
Maria, Academy Mentor, People 1st
Noel’s experience has already encouraged others too, with his wife also completing the programme and securing work in another school.
A Fresh Start Through the Employability Academy
Noel’s story shows the real impact an employability programme can have when practical training is combined with encouragement, mentoring and one-to-one support.
From being out of work after surgery to securing a rewarding role in a school, Noel’s journey is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to take a new step forward.
People 1st is delighted to see Noel doing so well at St Comgall’s, Bangor, and we wish him every continued success in his new career.
A big thank you to Ards and North Down Labour Market Partnership for supporting opportunities like this and helping local people access skills, confidence and routes into employment.
Interested in an Employability Academy?
People 1st works with Labour Market Partnerships across Northern Ireland to help local people build confidence, gain new skills and move towards employment.
To find out more about current and upcoming academies, keep an eye on our social media channels for future opportunities and success stories
If you live in the Ards and North Down Borough Council area there are opportunities advertised online for Employability Academies here on the Ards and North Down Labour Market Partnership website https://www.andbusiness.co.uk/labour-market-partnership/academies
