Transitioning into a career in further education: Gary Evans’ story

Now working as an Internal Quality Assurer (IQA), Gary uses the skills and discipline honed in the Royal Signals to inspire the next generation. His story is a fantastic example of how planning, lifelong learning, and military experience can pave the way for a fulfilling life after service.

Service and Studies

Gary enlisted in the British Army in 1994, serving for 24 years in the Royal Signals as an Electrical specialist before leaving in 2018. Throughout his service, Gary was a keen advocate for professional development, gaining a remarkable portfolio of civilian qualifications. These included everything from Level 4 Teaching to a CMI Level 5 in Leadership and Management and advanced City & Guilds electrical qualifications.

A pivotal part of his development came from discovering a passion for developing others. While based at the Royal School of Signals, he completed a fully funded City & Guilds Level 5 in Coaching and Mentoring. "This experience not only enhanced my leadership and communication skills but also inspired me to think seriously about my future career path," Gary recalls. "It was during this time that I realised my passion lay in teaching and supporting the development of others."

This newfound passion led him to volunteer as an assessor and then successfully make a business case to complete a Level 7 Diploma in Coaching and Mentoring, which he passed with Distinction.

Using Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC)

In 2014, Gary decided to use his Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) to take his education to the next level by undertaking an MSc in Coaching and Mentoring with Sheffield Hallam University. "My motivation was to further my education and professional development while I was still serving," he explains. "I recognised that the level of support and access to funded learning opportunities might not be the same once I left the military."

The course, which he completed in 2018, was a positive experience. The small cohort and dedicated tutors created an excellent, supportive learning environment. However, it wasn't without its challenges. Diagnosed with dyslexia in 2010, Gary found the 20,000-word dissertation particularly tough. Determined not to let this be a barrier, he simultaneously studied for a Postgraduate Certificate in Specific Learning Difficulties. "The course gave me practical tools to manage the challenges I face," he says. "It was incredibly empowering to gain insight into my own learning style, and it strengthened my resilience."

The Transition to Civvy Street

Gary’s move into civilian life was swift and successful. He attended a Career Transition Workshop (CTW) which he found "really useful" for its practical guidance. A key outcome was setting up a LinkedIn profile, which quickly led to recruiters approaching him for a role as an assessor at a college.

He has now been working in Further Education for six and a half years and is currently an Internal Quality Assurer (IQA) on the Engineering & Construction Campus at North Hertfordshire College. His role involves maintaining the quality and consistency of assessment, mentoring assessors, and ensuring apprentices receive a high-quality experience.

"I like that it feels highly rewarding to support apprentices, tutors, assessors and managers," Gary notes. "Ensuring high standards and helping others improve their practice gives me a strong sense of purpose, similar to the purpose I felt while serving." He finds that the skills learned in the Army—leadership, discipline, resilience, problem-solving, and mentoring—are invaluable in his daily work.

Advice for Service Leavers

Based on his successful transition, Gary has some fantastic advice for others preparing to leave the Forces.

On using your ELC:

"Before registering for your ELC, it is important to carefully consider your plans for when you leave the military. Think about the qualifications or skills that will benefit you and ensure that any course you register for can be completed within the timeframe available." He also highlights the importance of speaking to your chain of command about support and using resources like the military’s free library service.

On a career in FE:

"I would advise other service leavers to consider further education! Your leadership, discipline, resilience and mentoring skills are really highly valued. There is a learning curve around teaching or assessing, but you will have support. It’s a rewarding next step with real impact and long‑term opportunities."

For more information about teaching in Further Education, please visit: www.teachinfurthereducation.education.gov.uk