Mohammad’s BMet Experience

BMet caring teaching staff play key role in shaping Mohammad’s care career

Mohammad decided to make a life changing move to the UK from Iran, so that he could enhance his education and career prospects within the care industry.

His journey began at Matthew Boulton College, where he embarked on a number of courses – from entry level ESOL and Functional Skills, to Access to Higher Education Diploma Health and Social Care Professions.

We asked Mohammed some questions to find out more about his pathway to achieving his goals and dreams:

Why did you choose to study your courses?… and tell me a bit about “your journey” prior to coming to BMet?

“I am a 35-year-old man from Iran. Unfortunately, in Iran, due to the family’s economic conditions and the exceedingly high cost of education, I could not apply to attend university after my high school diploma. I entered the shoe manufacturing business when I was 18 years old and after a year, I opened the Edo Women’s shoe factory.

“Despite my business success, I have always wanted to study at university. After leaving Iran and coming to England, I decided to continue my studies. I arrived in the UK as a refugee, and after six months, when I was allowed to study, I enrolled at Matthew Boulton College to learn English.

“After improving my English skills through ESOL courses, I consulted with the college’s career advisor and decided to become a nurse. I made a SMART goal, a short-term goal to achieve the qualifications step by step, and a long-term goal, which was going to university and becoming an adult nurse.”

How have you found your time at BMet and did it cater to your needs?

“I was baffled when I came here and didn’t know what career to choose. Matthew Bolton College taught me a new way of life and introduced me to British values and culture, making me live with hope and purpose. I learned how to make a schedule to be a father, work and study.

“Also, I gained many communication skills. My time was fascinating at BMet Because I could find new friends, and through that, I learned about many cultures of different countries.”

What do you think of the support that you’ve received at BMet?

“There is nothing to worry about when someone studies at this college. As a single dad, I received childcare support, a bus pass, a laptop, extortionary pack and even sometimes free school meals, so, I continued my studies without worry.”

What have you particularly enjoyed during your time at BMet and what are your best experiences?

“Lovely tutors always helped me do my best and due to the extra support from them and student services, I was able to finish my courses as quickly as possible, which was great for me.

“They understood my passion and encouraged me forward. I made new friends, and through that, I learned about many different cultures and countries.”

What are you doing now and what are your hopes for the future?

“I have completed my Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma Health & Social Care Professions, and I am now studying at Birmingham City University, after gaining a conditional offer to study a Bachelor of Science with Honours Nursing (Adult).”

What advice would you give to other students wanting to attend BMet? Or that are currently here?

“This is a golden opportunity for you to build your future. If you are an adult student like me, never give up, it’s never too late to learn, set goals for yourself, hope for the future, and know that nothing is impossible, and you can be the best with effort!”

What would you say has been your favourite achievements/memories to date?

“My most significant achievement was getting ready for university after only three years as a non-English speaking person. I owe this to my tutors, and every day I was in college was my best memory.

“The day I received the results of GCSE Maths was very memorable because it was only after six months on the course, and I got a grade 5!”