Wirral Met Prep for Life students volunteer at Eurovision Village
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Students from Wirral Met College’s Prep for Life department have been volunteering in and around Liverpool as part of the Eurovision 2023 celebrations.
Students were located at various areas of Liverpool city centre, within the Eurovision Village, and around Liverpool Lime Street station, giving advice and guidance to tourists visiting the city for the event.
The volunteers from Wirral Met were also located at accessibility areas to help attendees with any assistance that they might require.
The event has been described as “true celebration of music and unity” with inclusivity being at its heart.
Josh, who volunteered at the Eurovision Village said “What I’ve enjoyed most about it is just the atmosphere. Everyone is so friendly, it’s just buzzing, there’s plenty of music and I’ve just really enjoyed it.”
Michael, who was also situated at the Eurovision Village said “What I have really enjoyed is just meeting the people. The people are amazing, the atmosphere is great, and the music is unbelievable. If this opportunity ever comes around again, I’m going to do it.”
Wirral Met College’s Prep for Life courses offer young people aged 16-24, with learning difficulties or disabilities, the opportunity to develop independence and work skills that will help them in adult life. Students start at a level which suits them and receive excellent support throughout their time with us, with fully-accessible facilities, highly trained staff and small group teaching.
At the start of the academic year, Wirral Met unveiled their state-of-the-art Independent Living Suite, a purpose-built learning environment where students who are vulnerable, or have special educational needs or disabilities, can learn the skills they need to live and work independently.
The suite, which was designed in close collaboration with the students, replicates a ‘home living’ environment thereby enabling skills for life to be explored in a friendly and supportive educational environment.
Hi, I’m Ailz. What I love most about education is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to people’s lives, help them recognise their own potential, and open doors to new careers and pathways. I began my career teaching English in Further Education, before becoming a mentor for trainee teachers through their placement years. I really enjoyed mentoring and coaching trainees, helping them develop their practice and discover their own strengths as teachers. This led me into teacher education, where I now work as a Programme Lead, supporting the next generation of teachers in the Further Education and Skills sector.
I care deeply about social mobility, the importance of positive relationships, and helping students feel confident and engaged in their learning. I’m a nurturing and approachable teacher educator, and I’m committed to ensuring that every trainee I work with feels encouraged, valued, and supported as they develop their practice.
I’m Sasha. What I enjoy most about working in education is helping people build confidence and realise their full potential. I spent 13 years working as a teaching assistant and Learning Support Assistant before moving into teaching Health and Social Care and Access courses with learners aged 16 and over. These experiences shaped my belief in the importance of positive relationships and adapting teaching to meet individual needs.
Mentoring trainee teachers and coaching colleagues sparked my interest in teacher education, which I moved into in 2024. I enjoy helping trainees connect theory with classroom practice, try out new approaches and find their own confidence as teachers. I aim to create a supportive space where they can ask questions, reflect honestly and feel comfortable seeking advice.
I have a degree in Psychology, a master’s in Mental Health, a PGCE, the National Professional Qualification in Leading Teacher Development and a Postgraduate Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring in Education. These studies continue to inform my interests in inclusive teaching, wellbeing, and supporting others to develop their practice.