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Meet Zoe-Clair, our Access to HE tutor

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Zoe-Clair Jackson is our Access to HE tutor at CLIP. We recently caught up with here to discover her journey.

Background and Early Career

Zoe-Clair Jackson’s early educational experiences were rooted in the local primary and secondary schools of Louth. Initially aspiring to work within a nursery, Zoe-Clair pursued and achieved both Level 2 and Level 3 NVQs in Childcare and Early Years. However, she soon realised that this might not be her true calling.

After exploring various job roles, Zoe-Clair found herself working as a Logistics Manager for a taxi company in Grimsby. It was here that her career trajectory began to change significantly. Recognising her potential, her supportive manager encouraged her to pursue further education and skills development. This encouragement led Zoe-Clair to a pivotal decision at the age of 31.

Education and Transition to Tutoring

Zoe-Clair enrolled in a BA (Hons) degree in Criminology and Social Science at the Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education, accredited by Hull University. Balancing her studies with reduced hours at the taxi company, she demonstrated remarkable dedication and adaptability. Her employer’s flexibility in adjusting shifts to accommodate her learning were crucial to her success.

Originally, Zoe-Clair envisioned applying her new-found knowledge within the Police Force. However, her experiences at the Grimsby Institute opened up an unexpected pathway. The tutors, recognising her enthusiasm, offered her opportunities to guest lecture. Zoe-Clair thrived in this role, discovering a passion for teaching. After her degree Zoe-Clair enrolled on a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with Hull University and halfway through her studies she was offered a part-time role as an Access to HE tutor. Upon completing her qualifications, she transitioned into a full-time programme leader position. Zoe-Clair continued to progress eventually taking the role of Access to HE Coordinator.

Teaching Career and Impact

In her teaching role, Zoe-Clair covered a range of subjects, including Sociology, Criminology, Early Childhood studies, Children Yung People and Families and Healthcare.  Her unique perspective as a mature student provided her with valuable insights into the challenges faced by older students. She was acutely aware of the additional responsibilities her students often juggled, such as rent, bills, car expenses and childcare.

Joining CLIP in Market Rasen in April 2022, Zoe-Clair found immense satisfaction in watching her student’s flourish. She understands the transformative power of education, particularly for those who might have lost hope in progressing further. She views the Access to HE course as a lifeline, proudly supporting her learners as they take significant steps toward their futures.

Zoe-Clair speaks candidly about the intensity of the Access to HE course, which condenses a two-year curriculum into just ten months. The qualification is equivalent to two and a half A-levels, demanding a high level of commitment from students. This accelerated pace fosters close bonds between Zoe-Clair and her students, allowing her to witness their confidence grow rapidly.

Many of her former students maintain contact with her, sharing their continued successes and progress. She finds great joy in seeing them move on to their next steps, knowing she played a small part in their journey.

Discover more about our Access to Higher Education courses.

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