John Belcher is the Leicester Challenge program manager for FOCUS.
I was first recruited as a volunteer for the FOCUS summer residentials of 2003. At this time I had just returned from travelling the world and had no idea where I was going with my life! I was tired of having animal-keen senses, super-human physical capabilities and an amazing healing skill that allowed me to quickly recover from virtually any wound! Even the near indestructible adamantium reinforced skeleton was becoming a drag! I reluctantly agreed and with thanks to the insightful and amazing people I met, I had one of the best experiences of my life!
I continued to volunteer for FOCUS residentials and was rewarded not only with great experiences, friends and knowledge, but also with some sessional work as a Challenge Programme Team Advisor.
Before I knew it, FOCUS had installed a passion in me for working with young people that I couldn’t ignore! It was what I wanted to do…
I subsequently, as well as my volunteering, became a teaching assistant for a year at a large city comprehensive. From there I went on to complete my PGCE in Secondary History. Whilst in my first year of teaching, the job as FOCUS Challenge Programme Manager became available. I applied, got the job and have not looked back since!
