Graduate Stories: An Interview with Tommy
Roots and Shoots graduating students go on to a variety of destinations including paid work, higher level courses, supported training and volunteering. Our Graduate Stories feature our recently-graduated students who are creating a bright future for themselves. |
"This place is like a second home. It’s very welcoming, you come in everyone’s smiley, there’s no judgement at all. I recommend it 100 percent!"
Tommy
Where did you first hear of Roots and Shoots?
When I was applying for my EHCP plan which I got when I was in secondary school, I was talking with the SENCO worker about what my next steps would be. In school I had a lot of trouble fitting in with other people because I’m a bit different. Anyway they suggested I go to Roots and Shoots and then I came here for a visit and that experience was just amazing. As soon as I had my first day it was just easy from there, I loved it every single day. I’ve changed a lot since being here. There was actually a video on the website from back when I started, I looked at myself and I was like “wow that’s definitely a big change.” I was a lot more nervous back then, a lot more shy.
What are you doing now?
I have a part time gardening job, which is something I started while I was studying here - it really helps that I was so used to getting hands on and mucky when I was doing gardening classes here. My full time work is at the Crystal Maze Live Experience, it's based on the original TV show from the 90s. My role is front of house - I’m on the door, giving visitors a warm welcome and all the information they need to get the most out of their visit.
What are your plans/goals for the future?
The job I’m doing now, it's a good job don't get me wrong, but it's not my dream job. I want to work with people with disabilities and help out where I can. I’ve been through school where you don’t get the support and you find it really hard to get that encouragement. I want to be that person to say ‘no you can do this, I will help you no matter how much it takes, it might just take a little bit longer for you, but you can push for it’. So that is something I’d like to do and see for my future.
Do you still have a relationship with Roots and Shoots?
I always try to come and volunteer at the community events where I can. It’s me and a friend who also studied here, we keep in touch. We start about 10am till whenever closing is and just sit on the front desk, selling tickets and just welcoming people. I like to give back where I’ve been given.
What would you say to someone thinking of coming here to study?
This place is like a second home. It’s very welcoming, you come in everyone’s smiley, there’s no judgement at all. I recommend it 100 percent! You aren’t treated like a kid, they treat you as an adult with maturity, and really listen to you. There are small classes so you get the support you need. It's a chance to get somewhere in life, no matter where you are currently. It’s also just a lovely place to be in London.
Read more about graduate stories