Leeds City College

Valeriia’s journey is a story of extraordinary resilience, determination, and courage. Fleeing the war in Ukraine, she arrived in the UK with no English, leaving behind her family, friends, and everything familiar. Despite the challenges, she embraced her new life with courage, staying with a host family and determined to rebuild her career.

Soon after arriving, Valeriia secured a part-time role in a primary school, and in November 2023 she began her Level 2 apprenticeship at Leeds City College. “Coming back to the education sector in the UK felt like a big achievement,” she recalls. At that time, she had limited understanding of the UK system and professional English, but she approached every challenge with positivity and perseverance, taking online lessons in her own time to improve her skills.

Valeriia’s dedication and talent quickly became apparent. She progressed into a Level 3 apprenticeship in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Department, supporting the rollout of a new module within the Navigate system – a platform designed for educational institutions to manage and track non-academic activities for learners with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). Her line manager, Emma Valente, notes that her attention to detail, thirst for knowledge, and willingness to challenge poor practices have already made a tangible impact, including improving legally governed processes involving Local Authorities.

A typical week for Valeriia involves audit checks, creating reports, team discussions, and providing administrative support across multiple campuses, alongside her study commitments. “I’ve learned so much about SEND – how the system is organised, different job roles, EHCP plans and reviews, risk assessments, and the importance of values in practice,” she explains. “At first, I doubted myself a lot, but over time I started trusting my skills and my place in the team.” Her apprenticeship has helped her build confidence, trust her working environment, and develop skills that will support her future career.

Valeriia’s perseverance has been recognised both professionally and personally. Her team describe her as hardworking, generous, and kind, with a commitment that extends beyond work – she even spends weekends weaving nets to support her country.

Reflecting on her journey, Valeriia says, “The apprenticeship has shown me that I can be accepted and valued, that I am part of a team, and that it is worth moving forward and exploring opportunities.”

Looking ahead, Valeriia plans to continue her career within education, exploring ways to combine her interests in education, art, and psychology. She is also a strong advocate for apprenticeships: “It can be a pivotal point for starting your career. The support from the team and assessor makes it possible to grow, even if you feel hesitant or face challenges. An apprenticeship allows you to learn, contribute, and explore yourself with the right guidance.”

Valeriia’s journey exemplifies courage, resilience, and the transformative power of apprenticeships. Her achievements highlight not only her personal determination but also the importance of inclusive support and opportunity, making her an inspiring example for anyone navigating a new country, career, or challenge.