Interview with Nicole Trembath, former Public Services learner

Nicole Trembath

Studied: Level 3 Sport and Level 3 Public Services
Progression: Now employed as a Prison Custody Officer

Why did you decide to study at Coventry College?
I had several options on where to attend college and decided to choose Coventry College, based primarily on the academic reputation for the Level 3 Public Services course I wanted to study.

I found opportunities for personal growth and development, not only academically but also thanks to the experience of my tutors. I knew they would guide me to take opportunities that would help secure a career when I finished my studies.

How has your career developed since leaving Coventry College?
When joining Coventry College I always had a clear idea of what career I wanted to go into – I always wanted to be a Police Officer. I knew this would be hard work and entail a lot of commitment and dedication. After leaving college I went into different jobs to gain experience with the public and learn about aspects of society that I would need to be successful.

I applied for the Police and needed 50% to succeed, but unfortunately only achieved 40% at the final stage. This was disappointing after all the hard work I had put in, but I always remained positive. I attended five different interview stages for the Police and even though I didn’t succeed, it gave me the confidence and experience to attend future interviews with my head held high.

Today I am a prison custody officer and I love my job. Although I am not a Police Officer my course didn’t go to waste, as I proudly work in the public services sector, supporting our community and keeping everyone safe, just like I would have done in the Police Force.

What course did you study, and what did you enjoy the most?
While at Coventry College I studied Level 3 Sport and Level 3 Public Services. I really enjoyed my time and would go back in a heartbeat. There was always something different to look forward to. Our group bonded very quickly with the help and experience from our tutors; every task was fun and enjoyable, suiting all the needs of the students. During the course we went on more than one residential trip; these were always affordable and gave me opportunities that I would not get outside of college.

The friendships and memories I made still remain today. Regarding the workload of the course, we were always given enough time and support to complete the assignments. If I was struggling, help from my tutors was only an email away.

What was the most important thing you learned at Coventry College that has helped you in your career?
The most important thing I learned at Coventry College was to be kind to one another. And, that it doesn’t matter if you come out of school with the best or worst grades, as you can always make a difference at college. I achieved average school grades and gained the highest grade in my Public Services course, as I got all the support I needed to complete my work to the highest standard and go further in my career.

I learned valuable communication skills, which are very important in my job role today. I also learned the importance of time management and how to conduct myself in the correct manner.

What advice would you give to those following in your footsteps at Coventry College?
As far as life lessons go, everybody won’t always succeed the first time – you will find aspects of the course difficult and you won’t always land the position you apply for. However, my advice is to never to give up and keep pushing for what you want to succeed in, no matter how many setbacks you may face.

Always ask for help, even if you feel like it’s a silly question, because someone else on your course may be in the same situation as you and not have the confidence to come forward.

If a Public Services career sounds right for you, see the programmes Coventry College offer.