I have completed a level two electrician course at Preston College and I started my second year, studying a level three, in September.
It’s hard to explain what I’ve learned so far. It’s been mostly theory stuff: cables, general electrics and science. Level 2 seemed like a pretty chaotic year, but Level 3 seems much better already. With my Level 3, I would like to achieve being able to confidently carry out work. It always feels good to move forward and learn new things.
Support from Emmaus
Emmaus got me to this point, so I’d say that their support has been very important. Emmaus has supported me with anything I needed; from getting me on the course to waterproofs I could cycle to college in. Emmaus Preston’s Head of Support Karen helped me get on the course and is always there to help me with anything I need to talk about.
I’ve achieved more qualifications while I’ve been at Emmaus. These have included City & Guilds Bicycle Maintenance Level 3, my PAT electrical goods safety testing qualification, NVQ Level 2 Certificate in Warehousing and Storage, NVQ Level 2 Certificate in Customer Service, my Level 3 First Aid course, Level 2 Maths and English qualifications and a cooker installation course.
My roles have involved a little bit of everything, from PAT testing to fixing bicycles that come in. At the charity shops, I help customers over the phone with collections and deliveries, put furniture together in the warehouse and load the vans. On the shop floor, I am face-to-face with customers, selling items, taking bookings for furniture delivery and handling money.
Helping other people
I go on the vans to help deliver furniture and collect donations and fit washing machines and cookers through the Under One Roof scheme, which provides free household items for people in need.
I like doing the bikes the most because it makes time fly. It’s productive and consists of lots of problem solving. I also like the vans because you always have an interesting day and you are always kept busy.
Emmaus gives you the opportunity to grow in a safe environment and learn from all kinds of people: staff, companions and volunteers. I want people to know just that if you set your mind to it, you can achieve anything and you’re not alone in doing so. Emmaus will help you.
If you would like to learn more about the help available from Emmaus Preston or apply, you can visit our Get Support page here.