Marharyta – Applying in English and Gaining a Qualification
Marharyta, aged 39, moved to the United Kingdom as a result of ongoing conflicts in Ukraine. She settled in the Sunderland area with her children and started searching for work.
When her local Jobcentre Plus referred Marharyta to Making a Difference, she wanted to develop her confidence in spoken English in tandem with finding a job. She needed support to help her adjust to how to find work in the UK and was able to gain an English qualification.
How Did We Help?
Marharyta met with Caitlin, a Making a Difference Employment Coach. During their initial meeting, they established how the programme could be tailored to meet Marharyta’s needs. They also discussed her professional background and explored different industries she might be interested in.
As a result of these conversations, Marharyta quickly enrolled in an ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course to help her confidence in speaking and applying for jobs in English. She also started attending a Basic Skills course delivered by Making a Difference to gain UK-recognised qualifications.
She quickly achieved an Entry Level 3 English qualification, aided by the intensive Basic Skills course. Making a Difference Tutor, Margaret, is delighted with her progress:
“Marharyta worked hard on the writing, speaking and listening sections. She practised every day up to the exam which shows true determination since English is an additional language to her. It was lovely teaching her and when she completed the exams and passed, she was so happy!”
Gaining an English Qualification as a Ukrainian Refugee
While completing her qualifications, Marharyta worked on her application documents under the guidance of Coach Caitlin. She successfully tailored her CV to different industries and advertised job roles. Her work with Caitlin enabled Marharyta to identify transferable skills from her previous work experience which would help her tremendously in a new work setting.
Soon after, Marharyta felt confident to start job hunting independently while still attending her ESOL course. She participated in additional virtual workshops, including mock interview training and personal statement writing. Not only did this add to her skill set, but she was able to exchange experiences with other participants and grow her network in the UK.
Marharyta has since attended her first interview and is now awaiting a response from the recruiter. To her Employment Coach Caitlin, she says: “Thanks to you, I was not afraid”.
She is also pleased with how the programme has boosted her confidence: “This program gave me first of all self-confidence. My specialist Caitlin is a great professional and a wonderful person who helped me to make the right CV, which has already interested many employers.”
“I was also constantly offered various courses to improve my personal and linguistic qualities. Thanks to additional training and education, I no longer have fear and I calmly conduct interview dialogue.”
We are grateful to be a part of Marharyta’s career journey and wish her all the best for the future!
Career Guidance To Get You Where You Want To Be
Making a Difference is an initiative match-funded by the European Social Fund (ESF). We help people of all ages find their way into work or training by providing tailored one-to-one guidance and support. Whether you are returning to work after a career break, considering working for the first time or simply want to try something new. We can help you figure out the next step for you.
Contact our friendly team to learn more and start your journey today!
