Tracey Archman
After leaving school at 16 in 1984 with few aspirations, Tracey Archman, now aged 41, joined the Youth Training Scheme and worked as a factory operator at the same time as bringing up four children for 11 years as a single parent.
Despite her eldest daughter being just four, she volunteered for work in pre-schools, eventually taking a full-time job and was immediately bitten by the learning bug. She took every course available, from pre-school practice and childcare development to computers in administration, while volunteering for a range of community support roles. Now a Community Development Manager at North Prospect Community Centre, Tracey has completed a string of advanced qualifications, including Level 3 Management NVQ.
“I have been active in setting up training sessions with senior staff members to support staff and volunteers – something I wouldn’t have done before as I wasn’t very confident,” said Tracey.
Mary Tromans, her nominator and assessor at City College, Plymouth, said, “Despite being stretched to the limit with cares and responsibilities, she has been an inspiration in her roles at the community centre.”