Testimonial 2
I was slightly apprehensive before the course began, as I wondered just what it entailed and what the other participants would be like. I need not have worried. Everyone was friendly and Clare put everyone at ease.
All the sessions had a really relaxed feel, despite being very structured. We covered themes such as knowing yourself, strengths and weaknesses, relationships, goal setting, assertiveness, image and networking. Everyone had an opportunity to contribute ideas and share experiences. We covered a lot of ground and it was intense at times, but there was a lot of laughter too! Clare did a terrific job at keeping everyone motivated and did this with a great deal of sensitivity.
One of the highlights was the guest speaker, where a woman would come in and talk about herself and how she got her current job. It made me realise that life can be full of ups and downs, but there is always some way of achieving your goal if you want it hard enough. As Clare stressed ‘That goal doesn’t have to be career related, but it can be personal to you’.
We also had to work through a workbook at home, which was soul searching at times, but a necessary part of the course as you have to be honest with yourself if you are to get anything from it.
What did I get from the course? I feel more confident and know that my opinions are valid. I’m not afraid ‘to give new things a go’ or volunteer for unfamiliar tasks. I am exploring career options, have obtained some freelance work and I am active on a PTA committee.
Perhaps the most valuable learning experience of all came from the other women on the course. They were of different ages and in varied jobs, but all had skills, interests and life experiences, which helped to inspire me. Clare herself was open about her own life and work and was very much a member of our group as well as being its leader.
I would recommend Springboard for any woman who is at a bit of a ‘crossroads’ in their life and needs to think about where they are going. It won’t give you answers, but it will give you ideas to explore in a supportive environment.
I would like to thank Clare for her encouragement and the personal interest she showed in us all, as well as making Springboard a lot of fun.
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