DCG Success Stories

Oksana Hyhar arrived in the UK from Ukraine approximately eight months ago, settling near Derby with her family.

With a background in management and a completed university degree, she brings strong academic experience and digital skills, including confidence using Microsoft tools and basic Power BI reporting.

Despite this, Oksana recognised that limited English proficiency—particularly in speaking, listening, reading, and writing—was her primary barrier to accessing employment in her professional field.

Upon arrival, Oksana sought opportunities to improve her English and was encouraged by Ukrainian friends to enrol at Derby College, which they described as supportive and high‑quality.

She began her studies at Entry Level 3 and has already completed assessments in listening, speaking, and reading, with writing scheduled later in the term.

Although her confidence in English fluctuates, her determination is evident: she works part‑time in a bakery to practise everyday communication, studies at home alongside her son, and uses reading materials from both charity shops and school resources to strengthen her skills.

Oksana identifies several barriers impacting her learning: adapting to varied English accents, balancing childcare, managing part‑time work, and navigating life in a new country.

Despite these challenges, she describes Derby College as welcoming, highly supportive, and instrumental in helping her settle.

Staff have guided her through practical processes such as enrolment and accessing campus facilities, and she consistently feels encouraged in her studies.

Looking ahead, Oksana hopes to progress through ESOL levels and eventually return to employment in a business or management-related role.

For the time being, Oksana needs to support her son with his own exams; she will continue to explore job opportunities in business management and/or retail.