Jake Squirrel

My name is Jake Squirrel, and I studied Level 2 Public Services and Level 2 Applied Science at South Essex Colleges Group from 2022 to 2024. This is my story.

I chose to study at South Essex Colleges Group because I wanted to gain real-world skills and build confidence. I was especially interested in learning self-defence so I could feel more prepared for everyday life, and I also wanted to explore my interest in medicine, which I was able to do through first aid training on my course.

Before coming to college, I had a challenging background. I was living in foster care with my nan and attended local schools in my area. Even though I achieved a GCSE grade 5 in English and grade 3 in Maths, I knew I wanted to continue building my skills and confidence.

At college, I achieved a pass in Public Services and a distinction in Applied Science. My time there was really positive. The staff were supportive, and I always felt encouraged, especially by the additional learning support team, who helped me manage challenges and stay focused on my studies.

After leaving college, I faced a difficult period trying to find work. I applied for over 500 jobs but struggled to secure a role, often being told that companies couldn’t accommodate my disability. It was frustrating, but I didn’t give up.

Everything changed when I saw a vacancy for a baggage handler at the Port of Tilbury. I applied, attended an interview and was offered the job on the same day. It was a huge moment for me, especially as the company accepted both my background and my disability.

I am now working at the London International Cruise Terminal in Tilbury and also at the Greenwich Cruise Terminal. My role involves setting up the baggage hall, unloading and loading luggage, organising arrivals and departures, and preparing the terminal for cruise operations. I work with companies such as Ambassador Cruise Lines and Viking Cruises, helping ensure everything runs smoothly.

My time at college helped prepare me for this role in many ways. I developed travel confidence, learned about safety and gained the ability to deal with issues in a calm and practical way. These skills are essential in my daily work.

One of my favourite memories from college was visiting the additional learning support department, where some of the staff remembered me from when I was younger, which made me laugh and showed how supportive and connected the environment was.

The best part of further education for me was learning new skills, especially self-defence, and gaining confidence in myself. It gave me the ability to try new things and believe in what I could achieve.

One of my proudest achievements is not just my job, but also supporting my family during difficult times. I helped look after my father when he was in hospital and supported my brother through that experience as well.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue developing my career, possibly working directly for a cruise line or moving into border force or security at a cruise terminal.