Sam Explores Passion for Helping Others on Part-Time Counselling Course at SERC

After developing an interest in pastoral care from completing a Theology degree at university, Sam Moore is building a new foundation in counselling on the part time CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling course, at SERC’s Newtownards Campus.

Sam, (27) says, “I went to Bangor Grammar before joining SERC to do my A Levels. After this, I went to University Bible College and got a degree in Theology but decided to retrain a few years later. Although I didn’t follow the course I did at university, I had always enjoyed the pastoral care elements that I studied, which made me interested in doing a course in something similar.”

“My wife had previously been to SERC and completed the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills through her work, which she then recommended to me as a good course to explore. Having been to SERC in the past, I already knew I had enjoyed studying there, and along with this, the cheaper fees in comparison to university really sold the course for me. I applied for the course, as well as the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies in 2021, which were both part-time. Last year, I then progressed to the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.”

Speaking on SERC and his current course, Sam says, “My favourite thing about SERC has been the different people I have met along the way over the past two years. I don’t think I would have met these people outside of the College, so it has been a really good opportunity to make new friends. On my current course, I like that my class can learn together and gravitate towards one another for support if any of us need a helping hand. My two lecturers, Janine and Sandra have also been great and very supportive, and it has been good to have two different styles of teaching which mixes things up and makes learning more engaging.”

“I am about to embark on some work experience with Christian Guidelines in Bangor which is a voluntary service, so I am hoping to get a taster of what area of counselling I want to do. After my course, I would love to go into counselling in some capacity, either continuing with voluntary work, or entering a paid position.”

Sharing advice for future students, Sam says, “I would definitely recommend the counselling courses at SERC to anyone who is interested in this area. The Level 2 and Level 3 courses are very worthwhile, no matter what profession you are in and help you build great skills. If you are thinking about counselling as a career, then the Level 4 Therapeutic Counselling is a great choice.”

If you're interested in learning more about the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling or other part-time courses, come along to SERC’s Newtownards and Bangor Campuses on Wednesday 7 June between 5pm and 8pm for our Adult Education Open Evening. Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.