TGt Meets..... Bath College's Student Participation Officer

In our latest TGt Meets interview, we've been speaking to Hayley Hayward-Boyle, Student Participation Officer, all about her role!

What was your career before you started this job?

After completing my M.A in The Theory and Practice of Human Rights, I began training as a social worker for Suffolk County Council. Unfortunately, I became too unwell with M.E and had to leave work. I moved to Bath in 2009 and set up a Breakfast Club at St Stephen’s Primary School. I also supported a pupil with autism one to one for five years. I joined Bath College in January 2015 in Learning Support and the following year did my teaching qualification and taught Health and Social Care and Functional Skills. In October 2017 I became a Student Participation Officer.

Why did you choose to work at Bath College?

I really enjoyed my time studying at Paston College in Norfolk as a teenager and after working with young children for many years, I felt I wanted a change and be able to help young people.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Coming to work at Bath College, it feels right for me and where I belong. I love my job and feel very lucky to be able to do something I enjoy and can make a difference.

Could you explain your role?

I bring the fun into education at the college. When students are not in lessons they can chill in the Student Union and take part in activities I organise. I work closely with local community groups and voluntary organisations to provide projects that students can volunteer for. I create and deliver awareness campaigns and promote different health issues such as Breast Cancer, Sugar Smart and Men’s Mental Health. I host our Fresher’s Fairs and various festivals throughout the year to help students improve their wellbeing and have some fun. I am here for students struggling with social and friendship issues and provide a friendly listening ear. I also organise trips and activities.

What do you love about being a Student Participation Officer?

I love everything about my job. It is a job made for me. It is fun, exciting and engaging and every day is different. I love that it gives me an opportunity to be part of the local community and can really help make a difference. I love that I get to be creative and think outside the box. Bath College is an amazing place to work and I have some great colleagues and friends here that help support me in my role.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone who was interested in the role that you do?

You don’t have to be mad, but it helps! Give it ago if you are passionate about working with young people and want to do something out of the norm.

What has this job taught you?

To be flexible and adaptable and make the most of every day. To go with the flow and to just enjoy it. It has also given me greater confidence in public speaking and in my own abilities. I love to learn from the students

too and they have taught me many things that relate to them and their lives.

What makes you motivated to continuously carry out this role?

Every day is different and I enjoy the variations it brings. One day could be dressing up in a onesie to raise money for charity and another attending a formal meeting for the Student Community Partnership. I enjoy seeing young people change and grow and I’m proud to help them with this.

What is the best thing you have done in your role so far?

In 2018, I organised an International Women’s Day celebration at Bath Brew house. Staff and students made an all-female beer called Suffrajitsu and working with other community groups, we hosted a celebration evening of music, poetry, comedy, speakers, art, pampering and raised over £1000 for The Circle charity.

What do you hope to achieve in the future?

I hope to be happy and continue to love what I do, and help others achieve this too.