Distinction Star for Scientist Mum at CONEL

Originally enrolling on a GCSE course at the College of Haringey, Enfield & North East London (CONEL) back in 2014, mum-of-two Cassandra Crucifix has progressed through the ranks and is now studying Level 3 BTEC Science.

Dental nurse Cassandra decided she wanted to change her career after having her first child. She wanted to work in a hospital environment as a radiographer, but needed to improve both her Science and English qualifications to do so. She enrolled at CONEL and, despite having to take a break in learning due to her pregnancy, achieved a grade B in her GCSE English. In 2018, with two toddlers and still wanting to change career, Cassandra returned to CONEL to join our Level 2 BTEC Science course.

Cassandra explained, “I didn’t do science at school, so it was all new to me. I found Physics really hard, but just because it was my weakness I didn’t give up. I focused on it and it ended up being my favourite of the three.

“With two toddlers, it was hard work. If I wasn’t at college, I was at home caring for my children. I would study once they had gone to sleep which meant I did not get much sleep myself, but in the end, it was all worth it as I got a distinction star. I want to study Radiography at university to get my dream job.”

When asked about her tutors, Cassandra said, “They have all been so supportive, especially as they know I have my two children. They all encourage you and want you to do the best you can. If you have a problem with anything, they are there for you. Without them, I wouldn’t have got the grades I got.”

Now in 2019, and with a distinction at Level 2 BTEC Science under her belt, Cassandra is on our Level 3 course that will see her progress to university to get her degree. Cassandra’s Tutor, Minas Mina, said: “Cassandra is an excellent student. She is diligent and approaches all her work with maturity and consciousness. She works very hard to balance family and academic life. If she carries on like this she is destined for success.”

Completing a science course or apprenticeship at CONEL can lead you into a wide range of professions including (Annual pay)

Biomedical Scientist: £43,680
Radiographer: £39,000
Physiotherapist: £34,840
Pharmacist: £41,080
Laboratory Technician: £25,480

The workforce in this sector is projected to grow by 3.9% over the next 5 years, creating 4,200 jobs. In the same period, it is estimated that 23.2% of the workforce will retire, creating an additional 25,300 job openings.