GC Stories: Akeim Mundell

After gaining a Level 3 in Childcare and Education with The Growth Company, Akeim wanted to get a higher level qualification to help him progress in his career, and enrolled on the Foundation Degree course for Teaching Assistants run by The Growth Company at their Manchester city centre base.

Akeim completed the course successfully and decided to carry on and join the BA Honours course in Professional Development – Education offered by The Growth Company in partnership with the University of Bolton. Akeim graduated successfully in 2017.

Akeim said: “The course was really enjoyable, and totally relevant to my current job role, so I was able to relate the learning to real life situations. The group I was in all supported each other very well, and the tutors were amazing, always on hand to provide advice and support. The atmosphere was very informal, so it was a great environment for learning.

“I’ve now enrolled on the Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) course with The Growth Company so that I can achieve my ambition of becoming a fully qualified teacher. I really didn’t think about going anywhere else to study as I’ve enjoyed my time with The Growth Company so much.”

As well as his work and his studies, Akeim also does community work, mentoring young people in his area, helping them to find work, and trying to keep them from making the wrong life choices. His work has led to him receiving several awards, culminating in receiving the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the 2017 New Year’s Honours List.

Akeim said: “I was shocked to receive the BEM, but I’m really proud to be honoured in this way. When I complete my PGCE, I’d like to teach in a secondary school, and continue to help young people to be the best they can be. I’m really grateful to The Growth Company for all the support they’ve given me on my career journey.”