“I liked this way of learning, particularly the online forums and the follow-up discussions in the face-to-face sessions.”
Steve hadn’t done any study since he completed his Electrician’s apprenticeship at 18. But he enjoyed the programme so much that he’s encouraged several others from his workplace to enrol.
Steve says, “I really liked the way of learning. How you can do the study at home, but you’ve got someone there to support you, not checking up on you, but letting you know where you should be up to. Because sometimes you need that. You get busy and sometimes you get a little behind, so it’s good to get that reminder.
I particularly liked the online forums. You could see the other students’ comments which was good, because it put you on the same track. I also loved the group face-to-face sessions because they reinforced what you’d learnt in your own time online. Being able to go over the concepts and discuss them was really helpful. I was really nervous about going into the class for the first time, but I don’t know what I was nervous about because Keith made the class feel really relaxed, so it was absolutely fine.”
Steve implemented the roll out of a new product for AA Home during his study, called AA Home Book-ajob. He was able to apply the skills he was learning in class to liaise with the various stakeholders including, trainers, contractors, legal, financial, and health and safety representatives. Although COVID slowed the rollout, the project was a success.
Steve’s grateful for the personal growth he gained from the course, as well. “I probably have a better understanding of other people. I think more about putting myself in the other person’s shoes. I try and look at things from their point of view rather than just mine. Even with my family life and the kids, it’s come into effect.”