From student to staff: Corey’s story of pursuing his dream of teaching

After leaving school Corey Knowles began his career as a plasterer, making cabinets and then building houses, dedicating several years to trades while pursuing his passion for motorbikes as a hobby. However, four years ago, he made a decision that created a significant career shift, returning to education and ultimately discovering his path to teaching.

Corey’s journey at Nottingham College began in 2020 when, at the age of 25, he enrolled as an adult learner at the London Road campus. Wanting to turn his passion for motorcycles into a career, he decided to expand his knowledge by enrolling on the Motorcycles Level 2 course. After successfully completing the programme, he graduated in 2022 with a Level 3 qualification.

Corey said: “The things I enjoyed most about my course was just the ability to learn more as I had worked on bikes for years prior. It gave me the chance to expand my understanding and knowledge. As an adult learner, the staff were all very friendly and my tutor Charlotte made such an impact as her sessions felt so worthwhile.

Following his graduation from Nottingham College, Corey spent nearly two years working as a motorcycle mechanic which he enjoyed. But for many years Corey has had an interest in teaching, a passion that dates back to his school days when he was studying plastering.

“I first considered working in a college just after I left school many years ago and met my then plastering lecturer, David. His teaching style and attitude towards learning made me think ‘someday I want to do that’. Ten years later I began studying Motorcycles at Nottingham College and met my lecturer Bobby who inspired me even further to pursue teaching.”

In February this year whilst employed in the industry, Corey received a text from his former college lecturer Bobby asking if he was still interested in pursuing teaching.

“I obviously said yes! I applied and had an interview, and I must have done something right as here I am! The move from industry to teaching was honestly life changing for myself and my family,” explains Corey.

In March this year Corey began teaching Motorcycle Level 2 and 3 courses and is set to begin teaching Maintenance for Engineering at the college’s Highfields campus this September.

He said: “The thing I enjoy most about my job is being there for students when they need help. Something I was told a long time ago by one of my tutors is: ‘Tutor doesn’t mean teacher; it means guardian, to watch over and protect.’ These words always ring true when I see a student in need of help.”