From the West End stage to leading a team that helps families thrive, Sarah’s career shows how success can take many shapes, and how it can start right here in Rochdale.
Sarah's story reflects the opportunities that come from following your values, embracing change, and helping others to grow.
Can you tell us about your career journey?
“I actually started out as a teaching assistant, working with young people in schools. That experience really shaped me. It showed me how powerful support and encouragement can be in helping children reach their potential.”
“After a few years, I decided to follow another passion and trained in theatre. I ended up working in London’s West End, which was an incredible experience. But I’m from Heywood, and I always felt a pull to come home.”
“When I returned to Rochdale, I wanted to build a career that made a real difference. I joined Rochdale Borough Council as a Business Support Assistant, later moving into a Business Support Officer role. That’s when I realised I wanted to work more directly with young people and families.”
What inspired you to move into education welfare?
“To gain experience, I started volunteering with the Youth Justice Service, completing eight weeks of training and working closely with young people and their families. It was eye-opening. I saw the challenges some families face and how important it is that they’re listened to.”
“When a role came up as an Education Welfare Officer, I went for it and it completely changed my path. I went from supporting systems to supporting people. It was challenging work, but so rewarding.”
What do you love most about your role?
"I became Team Leader for the Education Welfare Service, which was a big milestone. I wanted to learn how to lead and how to support others to grow, just as my own managers had supported me.”
“I have an amazing team: passionate, experienced, and committed to Rochdale’s children and families. We’re not just ‘attendance officers’. We build trust, remove barriers, and make sure every child has a voice.”
“What I enjoy most is seeing my team thrive. Supporting them so they can support others is the most rewarding part.”
How has Rochdale Borough Council supported your growth?
"Through development conversations, I started to think about what kind of leader I wanted to be. That led me to the Aspiring Leaders programme. I learned a lot about myself and how to create the conditions for others to do their best work.”
“At every stage of my career here, there has been encouragement, feedback, and belief in me. The council has given me the space to stretch, learn, and grow.”
What do you value most about working here?
“One of the biggest things for me is the flexibility. I can drop my son off at school every morning, and if I need to attend appointments or take a longer lunch, that’s fine. That trust makes a huge difference.”
“I know a lot of people who came from education, where the structure can be quite rigid. Here, it’s completely different. We’re trusted to manage our time, and that allows us to be fully present at work.”
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting their journey with us?
“I’d say: don’t be afraid to take a leap. My career has taken turns I never expected, from theatre to education to leadership, but each step has helped me grow.”
“Sometimes you don’t need to leave to find success. You just need to look at your surroundings in a new way. You can grow and achieve your potential right here in Rochdale.”
“Success isn’t just about you. It’s about helping others flourish too.”
Interested in succeeding at Rochdale like Sarah?