A group of students have been inspired to study a full-time certificate in childcare after completing a free four-week course.
The Working in Childcare course is among a number of short free and discounted courses run by the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London (CONEL).
Around two-thirds of the students who attended the course this month are now looking to study for a Certificate in Childcare Level 1 starting in February 2018.
The short course provides an overview of childcare and early years education, and also includes topics on respecting, caring and valuing children and playing in a safe and secure environment.
Sisters Erika and Johanna Sandoval, who have five young children between them, hope to study the Level 1 certificate to improve their prospects of working in the sector.
Erika, 31, said: “My sister told about this course and me how it will help me achieve my goals of working with children in a nursery or as a teaching assistant, and as a parent I want to have a better future for my children.
“I feel drawn towards a career teaching children. I want to help them to grow up in a certain way and educate them so they have a better life.”
Johanna, 25, added: “I’ve already worked as a childminder but I want to support teaching in a school and work with children to help them achieve.
“With the hours they have now introduced for childcare in the UK, it’s a good opportunity as a mum to get into teaching.”
Monalisa Debebe, 41, said: “Over the past couple of years I have been raising my children and now I have more time. I saw the College had a free course here, which runs when they are in school, so it’s been very convenient for me.
“I am looking forward to the Level 1 and a better career. I already look after children after school but I want to do it longer. I love children and it gives me pleasure working with them.”
CONEL also offers short courses in plumbing, brickwork, carpentry, home maintenance and DIY, hairdressing, beauty therapy, aromatherapy, massage, accounting, engineering, music production and Microsoft Office skills.