LEARNERS

Case Studies - Sister Helen

You’re never too old to start learning with JHP Training

Quashing any misconceptions that vocational qualifications are the domain of the under 25’s, Sister Helen Connolly has proven that even the “young at heart” can achieve vocational success.

At 72 years old, Sister Helen, a Health and Social Care learner with JHP Chelmsford, is England’s oldest Apprentice.

Based at the Franciscan Convent in Braintree, Sister Helen has taken on a big challenge in her life by undertaking a full Adult Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care at Level 3 – at a time in her life when most others are thinking of relaxation and enjoying their retirement! She is living proof that vocational qualifications can enhance your life and career – at any age.

With a vast amount of experience (27 years in total) in the residential care home at the Franciscan Convent, Sister Helen still believes the course is aiding her in her job role and is proving to be a motivating challenge;

“A lot of the other girls (nuns at the convent) were doing the course and I realised I hadn’t done it and thought it would be an encouragement to them. It puts knowledge behind your experience, it keeps the mind active and it’s a great interest to have.”

With a wealth of personal life experiences behind her, Sister Helen has no plans to retire and sees her Apprenticeship as the ideal way to keep her mind active and to, in her own words, “… keeps me out of mischief”.

For the full story on Sister Helen Connolly follow the link below or alternatively click here to view the press cutting (PDF).

http://www.tes.co.uk/search/story/?story_id=2651296

*Photo by Teri Pengilley in "The Times Educational Supplement" (August 1, 2008).