Experts in their field - Feargal Mellon

Today we meet Feargal Mellon - lecturer the Health Studies at NWRC. Recently Feargal won the Best Use of Technology Enhanced Learning in Higher Education award and the overall Best use of TEL in NWRC.

Name

Feargal Mellon

Job Title

Lecturer in Health Studies (Mental Health)

Years spent at NWRC

6 years (4 part time / 2 full time)

Describe your job

Delivering courses across a number of different levels I get to meet and support a broad range of people, my role is diverse, rewarding, and challenging. I am surrounded by an amazing team of people who share the same aim, to do the best we can to support the students to achieve their goals.

What was your path to becoming an educator?

My path started with NWRC as an adult learner in my 30's with GCSE English & Maths, before undertaking an access course and a career change that led me into mental health services where I worked for over a decade, working with a diverse client group. As I worked, I continued with my studies in the College achieving level 5 Diplomas in leadership & management in health & social care. I joined the team here in 2015 in a part-time capacity before taking on a full-time role in 2019.

So you could say I came here as a student and liked it so much I never left.

Most rewarding part of your job.

I love to see people doing well, reaching their potential both professionally and personally. Watching someone develop, growing in confidence and ability and achieving their qualifications and their dream job. Being part of makes me feel very privileged.

How does FE in your subject differ from education at school.

This is a different environment; the staff have all worked for years in their respective vocational settings. You will be on a first name basis with the lecturing staff, and you will be supported in your studies but will be expected to take responsibility for your work as we help prepare you for your chosen career path.

Tell us about some of our student successes.

When we think of success it has many definitions. On one side for me as a former adult learner seeing people take the step back into education is one of the greatest successes I have seen. Taking that step, making a career change.

Best moment at NWRC?

When someone tells you that you made a positive difference in their life.