How Andrew made a life changing decision to change lives

For 15 years Andrew Marshall spent his days working long unsociable hours as a bingo caller, with little to no time to spend with family and friends. 

But in 2023 he decided to make a change by becoming a Teaching Assistant (TA) at Kiora Hall in Stockton-on-Tees, and he hasn’t looked back since. 

“My job is amazing,” says Andrew. “I’m able to make a difference in a kid’s life but also see my own kids grow up. 

“In my previous job I was working long hours, and I wasn’t seeing my family at all. Now I’ve got a nice balance in life.” 

Andrew’s journey to becoming a TA will resonate with many in care and education as the sector is a melting pot of individuals with unique backgrounds and experiences. 

During his younger years, Andrew, like many young people in the UK, found himself in the role of a young carer for his older sister, alongside his parents and other sister. 

Through this lived experience, Andrew’s ability to remain empathetic, patient, and understanding, stood him in good stead for the career he would later embark on. 

In his three years at Kiora Hall, Andrew has built several special relationships with learners, and he doesn’t take these connections, and the impact they can have, for granted. 

These moments of pride and fulfilment come thick and fast for Andrew. Often, it’s the achievements that appear ‘small’ that have had the most resounding effect. 

“It’s the little things,” says Andrew. “You might have spent a week trying to teach one of the children how to pick up a fork and use it or you might have been trying to help someone feel comfortable with using public transport, so when you then see them doing that it’s such an achievement. 

“These little independent things, that can be so challenging for them, can make such a big impact.” 

It’s safe to say that Andrew, a man who towers over most people with a background as an accomplished basketball player and coach, isn’t your ‘stereotypical’ TA. 

Research suggests that only 22% of social care roles are held by those identifying as men. A disparity that Andrew believes is slowly changing. 

“Being a male role model is a privilege,” beams Andrew. “I’ve seen the number of men working in care increase since I’ve been here. When I started there were only three male TAs, now we have eight or nine.  

“It’s important because the kids look up to you and they might not have that male role model in their life.” 

Changing careers is a daunting step. It’s something Andrew knows all too well, but he urges people to make that leap because with empathy and understanding, you too can change lives.