From Level 2 Student to PGCE Graduate

Graduation day is always a milestone, but for 36-year-old Jade Rose, finishing her Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at Coleg Llandrillo represents a complete life transformation.

What started as a push from her grandmother to return to studies has evolved into a full higher-education journey, a passion for technology, and a brand-new career in teaching.

Finding the right path

After spending time as a stay-at-home mother, Jade knew she needed a change. Prompted by her grandmother to explore new options, she initially applied for a business marketing course. When that course was cancelled, she was redirected to a Level 2 IT Software Practitioner course, a turn of events she now sees as fate.

"I was like, 'Everything happens for a reason,' and I stuck with it," Jade recalls. "It was only then that I realised I could do Level 3, Level 4, and all the way up to Level 6 to get my degree within the college."

For Jade, staying local was crucial. As a single mother of two, the proximity of the Coleg Llandrillo campus meant she could balance her studies without uprooting her life or struggling with external childcare.

"Being a single mum, it worked perfectly for me because I live down the road," she explains. "I didn’t have to worry about childcare because it was all within school hours."

Recognising her potential, Jade’s tutors helped her accelerate her journey, obtaining the grades to skip Level 3 entirely and jump straight into higher level qualifications, culminating in her degree and her recent PGCE graduation.

Jade is standing in her graduation robes and cap at Venue Cymru in Llandudno

Transitioning from learner to leader

Moving from the student desk to the front of the classroom brings unique challenges, particularly when adapting to an authoritative role. Jade credits the strong support network within the college department for helping her make that leap.

"Going into the classroom from being a student to a teacher is quite a change," Jade says. "I had a fantastic mentor. I’d sit with her on Tuesdays and observe how she managed the room, learning how to separate being a student who gets along with everyone from actually being there to teach and lead."

Her background as a former student now serves as her greatest strength in the classroom. Having walked in her students' shoes, she brings genuine empathy and relatable experience to her teaching.

Breaking barriers for women in Tech

Computer science and IT are traditionally male-dominated sectors, but Jade found a welcoming and balanced environment within the college's computing department.

"There are quite a few strong women in this IT department, which is really good to see," she notes. "It’s a very equal playing field here—it feels completely normal, and we all get on really well."

When asked what message she would send to young girls in the local community considering a future in technology, Jade’s answer is clear:

"Most importantly, I’d want her to know that she belongs in the tech world. Yes, it’s a male-dominated field, but within this community, it is so welcoming."

Being a role model for the next generation

At 36, starting over as a single parent was a daunting step, but Jade hopes her story inspires others who might feel it's too late to change direction or pursue higher education. Above all, she wants to be an example for her own children.

"I want people to look at my journey and think: if you’ve been through a lot, you can still come out the other end in a positive light," Jade reflects. "At 36, starting over as a single mum – if I can do it, anyone can do it. I want my daughter and son to look at me and say, 'Look at what my mum accomplished.' I hope to be a good role model."

If you are looking to upskill or change careers, it's not too late to start your story with us this September. Visit our website to see the range of courses on offer for adults students returning to education: https://www.gllm.ac.uk/course-...