Giles Bentley 

When Giles Bentley first walked through the doors at RHACC in 2008, he wasn’t looking for a new career in counselling, he was simply seeking advice. After several years of soul-searching and exploring different paths, he booked an appointment with one of RHACC’s career advisers. Among the suggestions that came up was a course he had never seriously considered before: Level 2 Counselling Skills. 

Giles met with RHACC’s team of counselling tutors who made a strong impression and encouraged him to enrol. He attended his first evening class soon after – and, as he says, “the rest is history.” 

Giles had been drawn to counselling for some time, but it was the combination of course content, supportive tutors, and the space to reflect after a difficult few years that made the experience transformative. “It was very cathartic,” he recalls. “I was completely engaged. The whole package of counselling skills got me hooked.” 

He completed his training at the college and eventually earned his Diploma in 2012. After graduating, Giles moved into teaching and training roles. First in employment support, then teacher training, and even a spell in secondary education as an RE teacher; an experience he found to not be the right fit. 

Gradually, it became clear that his true passion lay in counselling and adult education. So, when a post for a counselling tutor opened at RHACC in 2019, Giles returned to where it all began – this time as a member of staff. 

Today, Giles is the Programme Manager for Counselling at RHACC, guiding new learners along the same journey that once changed his own life. His story is a testament to the power of finding the right course, the right support, and the right environment to grow.