GWENT single mum Justine Williams is an adult learner who is juggling family, work and education to help create a better future for herself and her two young children.

The beauty therapist, 32, of North Street, Abergavenny, studied part-time for a Post Graduate Certificate of Education at Coleg Gwent's Ebbw Vale campus.

The course, which is offered in partnership with the University of Wales College, Newport (UWCN) allowed Justine to graduate with a certificate which will qualify her to teach beauty therapy.

Divorcee Justine, mum to Max and Alannah, who has worked in beauty salons since leaving school, already teaches beauty therapy part-time at Coleg Gwent.

She said: 'It has been very difficult going back to college and juggling work, education and the kids, but I am looking to the future and can see the benefits of gaining this teaching qualification.

'The qualification will open many more opportunities for me, improve our quality of life and give me more independence.'

She said her family has been supportive, including her sister, Bethan Milsom, who also recently returned to college.

'It is hard work tuning into learning again after years away from education, but I am enjoying it very much and would recommend the course to others wishing to pursue a career in teaching.'

Justine intends to carry on learning and is considering pursuing a course in counselling now that she's completed her two-year PGCE.

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