For Karen Watson, part-time study opened up a secondary career path.
And it all began when she applied for the seven week Intro to Sport and Exercise Massage course at Fraserburgh Campus last year.
Karen said: “The evening class was a revelation. I never dreamt of a different career path but I just got completely hooked.
“The course was mainly practical with some theory around physiology and anatomy of the body. I actually decided to enrol again mainly to increase my confidence and understanding in the subject as I thought I might like to take it further.”
Karen certainly did take it further progressing onto the Level 6 Sport and Exercise Massage course – a 27 week course for those intending to progress to a formal sports therapy qualification.
After successfully completing this Level 6 course she then took the decision to apply for the full time HNC Soft Tissue Therapy course in order to qualify as a Sports Therapist.
She explained: ”I changed my hours at work to allow me to attend the classes and fulfil my study commitments. This October I graduate, after a year’s hard work and gaining my qualification.
“I’m now self-employed on a part time basis, building my client base. If anyone had said two years ago that I would be in this position now I wouldn’t have believed them!”
The NESCol part-time guide for 21/22 courses running from late August onwards has been launched online – showcasing opportunities to upskill, reskill and have some fun.
Within the new guide are a wealth of courses – from learning a new language, photography, podcasting and getting to grips with social media – based at NESCol campuses and learning centres in Aberdeen, Ellon and Fraserburgh.
NESCol also offer a large distance learning programme where courses can be studied flexibly to fit in with your day-to-day life.
To find out more about all the part-time and distance learning courses, join NESCol for their upcoming open day. Register here to attend.
