STANFORD’S Ross Miller went back into education to improve his career prospects after working in his chosen sector of social work for many years.

Ross, 28 from Stanford-le-Hope, graduated from South Essex College with a first class honours degree in social work.

He first took the College’s Access to HE course which prepared him for degree study.

Ross said: “After studying for my A-Levels, I worked in the community supporting vulnerable adults. This led to my career path. Social work is always something I’ve wanted to do, I enjoy working with people.

“I get to help disadvantaged individuals and I work to empower them, it feels like I’m helping to make a difference in their lives.”

Completing his degree helped Ross to secure his full-time job. He’s now a registered social worker in a local authority in Essex. He works with vulnerable adults over 65, arranging care packages for them and making sure they’ve got the support that they need.

He added: “This degree is a great achievement for me. I want to thank my family and friends for their support, my tutors were incredibly supportive too.”