Tamim’s first language is Bangla, and after arriving in the UK, he focused on quickly improving his English. Following an ESOL assessment in 2020, he progressed rapidly through language courses, completing Entry Level 3 by July 2021.
Tamim’s main goal was to improve his English. “I wanted to be able to communicate clearly and not feel lost in everyday situations,” he said. “When I tried to open a bank account, I felt the staff misunderstood me because I didn’t know enough English. From that moment, I promised myself I would become fluent in English.”
Adjusting to life in a new country brought challenges. “It wasn’t always easy,” he said, “sometimes people were rude or judgmental, but I told myself I couldn’t let those moments stop me, I had to keep going.”
He continued his journey through ESOL Level 1 and Functional Skills Maths Level 1. “I spent a lot of time revising and practising past papers,” he said.
“Doing Level 1 really helped me build my skills and confidence. When I went on to do GCSE Maths and English, I was ready. Achieving Grade 4 in both felt amazing; it showed that hard work really pays off.”
At the same time, he completed Level 1 IT and vocational studies early in January 2022. “I finished Level 1 so quickly that I was given Level 2 Digital Technologies work to complete between January and June,” he explained. “It was challenging, but I enjoyed learning new skills and seeing how much I could achieve.”
Tamim also took on the role of Student Representative. “I enjoy helping my classmates and raising issues for them in meetings with tutors,” he said. “It’s made me more confident, and I feel proud when I can explain something and see my friends understand it. That motivates me to keep learning, too.”
“I feel that my confidence has grown and I have improved in myself, both in my confidence and my spoken and written English. My tutors have motivated me to progress to Higher Education, and I have had lots of support from the Careers Team.”
Now in his second year of the Level 3 Extended Diploma Web & Software Development, Tamim continues to make excellent progress. He completed a ten-hour work experience placement with Inclusive Bytes, a local project that gives young people real-world experience in technology while supporting the community and tackling digital exclusion.
Tamim hopes to build a career in cyber security. “I want to work in cyber security because it’s the job of the future. I want to protect systems and keep people safe online,” he said. He has completed his UCAS application to university and is working towards achieving a Distinction.
Staff at Oldham College describe Tamim as determined and supportive, highlighting his journey as proof that building confidence and taking responsibility leads to remarkable achievements.
My tutors have motivated me to progress to Higher Education, and I have had lots of support from the Careers Team.
