Rebekka McLaughlin

Rebekka McLaughlin is no stranger to the vocational qualification route; this is the second course she has completed within the last few years and it’s safe to say that she’s a passionate advocate for NESCol!  

Rebekka graduated with an SVQ in Management, having previously completed a modern apprenticeship in Logistics Operations, all whilst working full-time with her employer, Oleochem Project Management, a production chemistry and laboratory services provider.  

Talking about her decision to study via NESCol for a second time, she said, “I enjoyed my modern apprenticeship and wanted to keep challenging myself. Vocational qualifications are great, as you do your job, learn how to improve or do things differently, and get industry-recognised certification to prove your ability.

I’ve had such a positive experience with the College and can’t recommend the workplace learning route highly enough. I think it’s important to recognise that there are various routes to achieving qualifications and this was the right path for me.”

Rebekka, who is now Operations Manager at Oleochem, responsible for a team of staff, left school at sixteen and went straight into employment.

She said, “I’m approaching my thirtieth year, and I’ve worked hard to get to where I am today, it’s great to have these qualifications to cement the knowledge, understanding, and experience that I’ve built up over the years.

Attending graduation was a stand-out moment for Rebekka and she was delighted to be taking part in this key event in the NESCol calendar, “Most people graduate a few years after leaving school so I was excited to finally have my turn! Who doesn’t like an excuse to buy a new dress and enjoy a celebratory lunch out?”