Jenny Hutchinson
Job Title: Lecturer in Health and Social Care
Department:
Previous Roles/Industry Experience:
I’ve built my career through a mix of hands-on frontline roles and project leadership in the community and voluntary sectors. I started out as a care assistant and have also been an informal carer, so I understand the realities of providing care from both personal and professional perspectives. I spent many years working as a detached youth worker in both Antrim and West Belfast, supporting young people through outreach work with community organisations and Education Boards.
I later worked with people with learning disabilities and took on several roles that focused on health promotion and community wellbeing. As Health and Wellbeing Coordinator with Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke, I led projects that trained local health champions in business and voluntary groups to promote positive health messages across Northern Ireland. I also worked as the Schools Volunteer Coordinator for the NSPCC’s Speak Out Stay Safe programme, managing a team of volunteers delivering safeguarding workshops in primary schools. All of these experiences continue to shape my teaching — helping me to keep it real, relevant, and rooted in practice.
Benefit(s) of learning from an industry expert:
When students learn from someone who’s been in the roles they’re training for, it brings everything to life. I share examples that show how theory connects with practice — whether that’s around safeguarding, communication, person-centred care, or supporting young people in challenging environments. It’s about helping students feel prepared and confident to step into professional roles.
Tell us why students should study your course/subject area at Northern Regional College:
Health and Social Care is one of the most important and rewarding sectors to be part of. At Northern Regional College, students don’t just gain knowledge — they develop the confidence, critical thinking, and professional values they’ll need in the real world being supported the whole time with a personal approach to class provision. With opportunities to explore leadership, innovation and enterprise, students are encouraged to think big and believe in their ability to make a difference.
Most rewarding part of your job:
One of my proudest moments was co-leading a Dragon’s Den-style event with our international partners. Our students pitched their ideas alongside learners from Finland and received real-time feedback from entrepreneurs in all areas, including health and social care. It was a brilliant mix of creativity, confidence-building, and global learning — and a great example of what can happen when we give students space to shine.
Most memorable moment at Northern Regional College:
Seeing students grow – personally and professionally – is the best part of what I do. Whether it's a breakthrough moment in class or getting that first job offer, I love helping students realise how much they have to offer. It's a real privilege to be part of the journey.