Gaining qualifications while juggling childcare responsibilities can seem overwhelming, but for Lisa March, a former South Bank Colleges student, the college nursery provided the support she needed to transform her life. Today, Lisa is a successful therapeutic counsellor, and she credits the nursery team at the Clapham Common campus with making her education journey not only possible but enjoyable.

Lisa’s Journey: From Student to Successful Business Owner

Lisa March’s inspiring story begins with her decision to return to education while raising her son. Like many parents, Lisa worried about how she could balance her studies with the demands of childcare. She wasn’t sure it would be possible at all—until she discovered South Bank Colleges Nursery.

Reflecting on her experience, Lisa says:

"Gaining the qualifications I needed to start a new career felt scary enough, but the added pressure of trying to arrange childcare made me wonder if it would be possible at all. That’s until I met Pamela and her team at South Bank Colleges Nursery. From the moment I visited the nursery, I knew my son would thrive there while I could focus on my studies."

South Bank Colleges Nursery provided free childcare while Lisa attended her classes, completed her assignments, and participated in her placement. The nursery staff went out of their way to ensure she had the flexibility to get the most out of her course.

Lisa now runs her own private practice as a qualified therapeutic counsellor, helping individuals and families through challenging emotional experiences. Her business, Lisa March Therapy, offers both online and in-person counselling services. She specialises in supporting clients to break generational cycles and heal past trauma, drawing from her extensive training and experience in mental health.

South Bank Colleges Nursery: The Support System for Student Parents

For many student parents like Lisa, South Bank Colleges Nursery provides an essential service that allows them to pursue their education with peace of mind. The nursery, based at the Clapham campus, serves children aged 2-4 years and operates in alignment with the student's timetable, ensuring maximum flexibility.

Lisa's words of gratitude for the nursery team highlight the positive, nurturing environment they provide:

"The nursery is a warm, friendly, and supportive environment—it’s no surprise they have retained their OUTSTANDING Ofsted rating. I never would have imagined I could juggle childcare with education, but South Bank Colleges made this process possible and even enjoyable."

The nursery doesn’t just offer childcare; it offers a community of support for parents pursuing their academic and career dreams. Whether you're studying in the classroom, working on assignments, or completing a placement, the nursery staff are there to ensure that your child is well-cared-for, allowing you to focus fully on your studies.

Why Choose South Bank Colleges Nursery?

The outstanding care provided at South Bank Colleges Nursery ensures that your child will be in a safe and stimulating environment while you study. The nursery’s Ofsted OUTSTANDING rating speaks to the quality of care that students and staff alike can trust.

Here are some of the key benefits of choosing South Bank Colleges Nursery:

• Flexible Childcare: The nursery’s opening hours correspond with students' timetables, allowing parents to plan their studies without worrying about conflicting schedules. For staff, the nursery operates from 8:30am to 5:30pm, offering reliable care throughout the workday.
• Supportive Environment: The experienced team, led by Senior Nursery Manager Pamela Hammond and Nursery Supervisor Shabana Merchant, are dedicated to creating a friendly, nurturing atmosphere where every child can thrive.
• Seamless Application Process: Applying for a place at the nursery is straightforward, with application forms available at the Clapham Reception or by email request. The college also offers external childcare funding options, making it easier for students to secure childcare that meets their needs.

Lisa’s recommendation speaks volumes:

"I urge anyone putting off education due to childcare concerns to visit the nursery. They are amazing!"

Balancing Childcare and Education: You Can Do It

Returning to education while managing family responsibilities may seem daunting, but South Bank Colleges provides the resources and support to help you succeed. Whether through the college nursery or external childcare funding options, South Bank Colleges is committed to helping parents achieve their academic goals without sacrificing their childcare needs.

Lisa’s story is proof that it is possible to balance both. Today, she’s a successful counsellor, making a difference in her clients' lives. She continues to develop her skills through workshops and has a wealth of experience working within the mental health sector, including roles in the NHS and various charities.

Her message to other parents considering a return to education is simple: with the right support, you can make it happen. And at South Bank Colleges, that support is there when you need it.