Prior to joining Stimulus, Nicola worked as a teaching assistant. She is currently studying Criminology and Psychology at the Open University, and in her spare time she loves to sew and knit.
10 years ago, what did you think you would be doing now?
For the last 15 years I have worked in education as a Teaching Assistant and, as a young girl I always wanted to be a teacher so, to be honest I thought I would probably keep working in school until I retired!
What quote do you live your life by?
“Treat others as you would wish to be treated.” I have always taught my children this in the hope they would grow up to be kind human beings. This crazy world needs kindness.
What’s the one thing you couldn’t live without?
My family, without a doubt. My children are my greatest achievement! I have a son, Sam who is now 25 and a daughter, Mollie who is 23. Besides that, tea – it solves everything!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to sew and knit. I am also about to start my fourth year of a degree with the Open University studying Criminology and Psychology which takes up quite a bit of my time. I also enjoy walking my two dogs Maggie and Dottie.
What are you listening to/reading/watching at the moment?
I enjoy reading and watching anything to do with crime. Currently I am reading “Say You’re Sorry” by Karen Rose and I am very happy that Bake Off is back for a new series, but I am a rubbish cook!
What’s your previous working experience?
After my A levels I started a career in accountancy which I continued for 16 years. Following a health incident, I re-evaluated my life and decided to follow my heart and began my career in education. I began working in my local primary school and stayed there for 8 years and then went on to big school and worked at the local secondary for 7 years before joining the Stimulus Team.
What’s your favourite thing about life at Stimulus?
It may be cliched, but it has to be the people. It really has felt like I have joined a family who all support each other. Everyone has fun but also works very hard.
What are you excited about during the next year at Stimulus?
I am currently training in my new role and there is a lot of information to take on board but already I can see that I am going to love the variety the job brings to each day. I also get to work with a very patient and caring team.