Heather Almond, Head of Marketing: Class of 1997
As part of our celebrations of 35 years of North Hertfordshire College, we’re shining a spotlight on Heather Almond (Class of 1997).
Heather studied her A Levels in Communication Studies, Psychology, and English Language & Literature at North Hertfordshire College. After a degree in Communication Studies at Middlesex University, Heather returned to the College and worked her way up to her current role as Head of Marketing & Communications.
Find out more about how Heather’s NHC journey helped launch her career:
How did NHC support you in preparing for this role?
“It was at North Hertfordshire College that I first started learning about the importance of communication, and that has been a major part of every role I have undertaken in my career since. I remember at the time that A Level choices at school were limited to only academic subjects, but I needed something different to keep me interested; NHC offered exactly that, an opportunity to study something completely unique that I hadn’t learnt about before.
“My A Level choices were perfect for a role in marketing where communications, psychology, and English are some of the key elements you need for the role. I must have realised at 16 where I wanted to be in the future!
“I have worked at North Hertfordshire College since I was 21 years old. It has been an amazing journey working with so many wonderful people, who I now class as friends. The many different non-teaching roles that I’ve worked in have taught me so much about the brilliance of the further education sector.
“So many of the people I now call friends came from either my studies or my work here. I have a great love for the place and all NHC has brought into my life.”
What takeaways from NHC do you use in your current role?
“The introduction of communication theories sparked such an interest in me – I loved learning about every element and how these forms of communication affect our everyday life. It was truly fascinating and an eye-opening insight that ignited a real passion for this work. The tutors had a teaching style that was so engaging, that I can still remember key parts of their lessons today.
“We always implemented our learning in project work which I found so inspiring and allowed me to understand the implications of the lesson – college was SO different from school.”
What’s your favourite memory of your time at NHC?
“The teamwork, and the laughs we had as a group of friends navigating our new independent journey in education. We had some great times together both in and out of the classroom, and I am so grateful for the long-lasting bonds I made.
“I remember going to my first ever class, not knowing anyone studying the same subjects as me, and I spotted another student across the room, and we made a beeline for each other. We must have realised we would get on as we are still firm friends now, and we even house-shared for a few enjoyable years too…!”
Would you like to give a shoutout to any tutors, staff or friends from your time at NHC?
“So many friends in my classes (and apologies if I miss anyone) but Fran, Donna, Katie, Katy, Gemma, Temisen, Sarah R – they all made my college years some of the best of my life.”
Share your story:
Are you a former NHC student, apprentice, or staff member? We want to hear about your college experience! Visit our Get Involved page to share your memories with us and add your story to our virtual archive.