To celebrate International Women’s Day, we caught up with Chloe Tracey, an ex-apprentice and inspiring female leader, to discuss her career journey. Chloe recently started working at Oldham College as the Safeguarding and Welfare Manager and Designated Safeguarding Lead.
What path did you follow after leaving school?
I initially started doing my A Levels when I left school, but at that time in my life I recognised A Levels weren’t what I needed to feel fulfilled. I had started working a part-time job and recognised how much enjoyment I got from this, so decided to apply for an apprenticeship in Youth Work and Training. I loved doing the apprenticeship and felt that my role had a real impact. Not only did I apply for funding and develop my own youth group in Leeds, but I also wrote and developed a curriculum for NEET 14–19-year-old learners, to help them to develop life skills and work towards employment.
Can you tell us about your career journey and how you got to your current role at Oldham College?
I’ve had a vast career journey, starting as a Youth Worker before moving on to work as an Emotional Health Worker. While doing this, I was also given the opportunity to develop the ‘sibling young carers project’ in Kirklees. I was in that role for a number of years, before I then worked as a Mental Health Advocate with the Gypsy and Traveller community. It was a fantastic opportunity to develop my skill set further and do an amazing piece of meaningful work.
During COVID-19 I worked as a Designated Safeguarding Lead in a secondary school setting and saw the impact that the pandemic had on young learners first-hand. After the pandemic, I knew I was ready for another challenge and the opportunity arose to work with West Yorkshire Police in the Children Vulnerable to Exploitation and Missing team. This was such an amazing experience, working with vulnerable young people and seeing their case from the start all the way to the Crown Prosecution Service and advocating for positive outcomes for victims.
I have known for the last few years that I wanted my career to have a greater focus on Safeguarding; it is something I am passionate about, being able to advocate for others, and help and protect where possible. So, when the chance came up to put together all of my acquired skills and work at Oldham College, I jumped at the opportunity.
Have you had any mentors or role models who have influenced your career journey?
Slightly cliché but my parents. They have always worked so hard in their careers and taught me the importance of a hard day’s work, alongside the importance of being passionate about what you do. My parents introduced me to the world of work, and safeguarding in effect, as at age 14 we opened our family home to emergency placements in social care. They allowed me to see the importance of protecting children and young people, and what a difference the right care and support can make in a person’s life.
What are some of the biggest milestones or proudest moments in your career?
I’ve had so many moments of pride in my work, all coming from the people I work with, not my own personal achievements. My achievements come from seeing others progress and flourish.
What advice would you give to young women who are just starting their careers?
You don’t have to pick just one path, your career is a journey and a personal adventure. As long as you’re enjoying what you do, you’re doing the right thing for you.
