St Vincent College
Claire Swann
SUN Progression Mentor at St Vincent College
What is your role at the college & how can you support the students?
I work within the Careers Team at St Vincent and focus my support on students coming from underprivileged backgrounds and under-represented groups such as In Care/Care Leavers, Young Carers and Military families. I do groupwork and 121 sessions where together we overcome the hurdles that might get in the way of the student progressing onwards in education to the next level, what ever area that might be in!
What has been your career journey & what did you study?
I studied Biology, English and French at 6th form College and went on the study BSc Psychology (Hons) at University of West England, Bristol. Although I didn’t initially use my degree subject in work, I soon realised I wanted a career supporting people and enabling them to progress in life, no matter their starting point. I have since worked in the Probation Service, doing therapeutic groupwork with Offenders, taught English as a second language abroad, worked in Mental Health Hospitals, and worked in the Charity Sector for over 8 years. Much of this was working with NEET Young People progressing them back into education and enabling them to realize and achieve their own potential in life.
What is a fun fact about you?
I enjoy off-road running particularly in nature. My favourite places are up hills, through forests and woodland. I also love cooking especially new recipes but only when I’m not under pressure to serve a dish on time! My most interesting fact is I have had the absolute privilege of travelling through Tibet whilst teaching English to locals.
