Level 4 HNC Construction in the Built Environment
Leanne was required to change careers when she relocated from Wales back to her hometown of Darlington.
After securing a position with National Highways (formerly Highways England), Leanne was encouraged to train and upskill by her line manager. She said:
“My employers are huge advocates for learning development - just shy of a year of transitioning into my new role as a Commercial Assistant in a brand-new industry, my line manager offered an opportunity to further my skills, expand my knowledge, gain qualifications and set the wheels well and truly in motion for my new career pathway to become a Quantity Surveyor at National Highways.”
Having gotten over the initial shock of being the only female on our Level 4 HNC Construction in the Built Environment course, Leanne had built fantastic relationships with her peers and tutors.
“There were top facilities, the classes were engaging and informative. I had everything under control and was heading in the right direction.”
Leanne reaped the rewards of her perseverance through the loss of her father and nana, and studying through the pandemic.
“I honestly felt like the universe was throwing everything at me to make me fail, but through strength, determination, drive, commitment and the amazing support from my peers and tutors, I succeeded.”
Leanne achieved distinction grades across the board in every one of her modules. Swiftly after completing the course, Leanne received a promotion at work and an unconditional offer at Northumbria University to train to be a Chartered Quantity Surveyor.
Leanne ended with the three things she has learnt from her journey:
“Life is full of twists, turns and changes, but from looking back on my journey I’ve learnt three things; the first is that you are never too old for a change in career, to go down a different path and to gain further education and higher qualifications. The second lesson learnt is that construction is absolutely an industry that women can and should work and achieve in. And finally, the last thing that I have learnt from my experience is that life is short so pursue your interests or take a leap of faith but no matter what life throws at you don’t give up.”
Leanne stressed the importance of education for personal and professional development, for both the employees and businesses. She ended with:
“If it wasn’t for the eventual completion of my Level 4 HNC, I certainly wouldn’t be at the point in my career of where I am today.”
We have been in touch with Leanne since she started her degree at Northumbria University, she enthused:
“Having settled into university life at Northumbria University, I am now well on my way to becoming a Chartered Quantity Surveyor. Thanks to my HNC qualification, I was able to be fast tracked into year 3 (of 5) and I’ve been able to utilise things learnt from my time spent at NCD onto my new course.
“My new peers at university have fast become friends and we’ve even formed a study group in order to collaborate and help each other through the next 3 years to Chartered Quantity Surveying success!”