20/01/11
Ambitious Robert makes his case for a career in law
Former Cardiff telecoms executive Robert Donaldson decided to take his career to a higher court and swapped his job with BT for the chance to pursue his dream of becoming a lawyer.
Robert left school at 18 before sitting his A-levels in order to take up a full-time post with the telecom giant.
But he eventually realised his long-held dream would not go away and, after some fast-track A levels, he secured a place at Aberystwyth University where he now hopes to graduate in law.
His success in re-igniting his career ambition is being highlighted this month as part of a New Year drive by the Welsh Assembly Government and adult learning body NIACE Dysgu Cymru to encourage people of all ages to start 2011 by seeking new knowledge or skills.
During January adults in Wales are being urged visit one of the many open days and information events being held in colleges and other places of learning as part of the campaign entitled Your Future Your Choice Your Action, funded jointly by the Assembly Government and the European Social Fund.
After three years in his telecom role, Robert decided it was time to go for the career he really wanted. He enrolled at Coleg Glan Hafren for fast-track A-levels which offer a high level of tutor support and are condensed into one year rather than the usual two. Courses are held in the evening, enabling students to study while continuing full-time employment.
Robert certainly proved his academic ability, scoring over 90% in his Law A-level as well as gaining A-levels in History and Politics. His performance also secured an unconditional offer to study law at Aberystwyth as well as a £1,000 scholarship to aid his studies.
Speaking of his achievements Robert, now aged 23, said: “At the age of 18 I was ready to leave school but didn’t really think about how this would affect my future. At that point I was ready to work and earn some money.
“However, I decided I wanted to return to education and follow my dream of becoming a lawyer.
In part it was about proving to me I could do it. I enrolled on a fast track A-levels course at Coleg Glan Hafren. The college were extremely helpful; they understood the pressures of working full time and studying. The help I received from my tutor was fantastic.
“I am glad I returned to learning, it goes to show it is never too late. Certainly if I hadn’t it is something I would have regretted, I definitely recommend that any others thinking of returning to learning should do so.”
Leighton Andrews, Minister for Children, Education Lifelong Learning, applauded Robert’s determination and stressed the importance of people of all ages improving their knowledge and skills.
He said: “It’s important for the competitiveness and prosperity of Wales that more individuals choose to increase their knowledge, skills and qualifications, whether it is in basic skills such as literacy and numeracy or through one of the thousands of vocational or academic courses available. Whatever their situation, I would encourage people to consider all the options and grasp these opportunities.”
People eager to pursue new skills are being urged to visit the website www.yourfuturechoiceaction.org.uk.
