Age 16-18
If I can do it, anyone can: How Ola found confidence and connection through adult learning
‘If I can do it, anyone can! Coming back to college has given me confidence and a new community’
Olafunke is currently studying SIA Door Supervision at New City College. After years of focusing on work and family, she decided it was time to invest in herself and return to education. With determination and support from her tutors, she’s rediscovered her confidence and found a new sense of community through learning.
The number of female SIA licence holders increased by 5,000 in one year, reaching 100,000 in August 2024. Olafunke is proud to be part of this growing group of women stepping into security roles.
What was it like returning to education after so many years?
When I first went to do my English and Maths, I asked myself, ‘Can I really do this?’ It had been such a long time since I’d studied. I’d been looking after my kids and working, so you tend to forget about yourself. When I went for the assessment, I was so nervous, thinking, ‘Am I going to be able to answer this correctly and get on the course?’ But when I did well, I thought – if I can do it, anyone can!
How has the college supported you in your studies?
The support at the college is amazing. The tutors really help you and never make you feel less of yourself. When you’re struggling, they take the time to break things down and explain it in a way that’s easy to understand. That makes such a difference. Coming back to college has also given me a new community. You meet all sorts of people and you learn from them, and they also learn from you. It’s made me feel a part of something again.
Why do you think funding for adult education is so important?
We really need these courses. Some people never had the privilege to study once they left school – so now this is their chance. It gives people hope and shows that we can do things for ourselves instead of just relying on benefits. It also keeps people off the streets. Without opportunities like this, some adults lose hope, and that can lead to problems like crime. Courses like these don’t just teach facts and skills – they make our communities safer and stronger.
