From finance to ranger: Lifelong Learning course changed Hannah's life

24 September 2026

It took just 10 weeks for Hannah Shakeshaft's career to change dramatically.

A Wirral Council Lifelong Learning course sparked a passion for the great outdoors. So, when a Ranger role at Birkenhead Park became available, Hannah knew she had to apply.

At the time, Hannah was working in Wirral Council's finance department. But a Beginner's Gardening Course had made her realise her enthusiasm for working outside. Thirteen years later, she has not looked back.

Sometimes, you only need to do something very small and it can be the start of a massive journey.
The confidence of going on the course and learning new things in adulthood was amazing. I thought I was too old to learn new skills and change careers. It's easy to think there won't be other opportunities when you get to a certain age.

Hannah Shakeshaft

Hannah enrolled on the Beginner's Gardening Course alongside her son and mum, with classes taking place at Woodchurch High School. Three generations learned how to grow a range of produce together, including potatoes, carrots, radishes and lettuces.

That led to Hannah's family growing vegetables in their garden at home and then getting an allotment.

Not only did they learn new life skills and how to become more self-sufficient but they also created precious memories. Hannah’s son also went on to study a qualification in ecology and countryside management.

When you’re working, you can get into the routine of coming home, cooking tea, sorting homework and watching TV - but growing vegetables meant going out into the garden instead.
I've got photos of the kids standing on spades, covered in soil, with sunflowers growing around them. They were beautiful family times.
Being with my mum and son was lovely. It was quality time for the three of us and we still talk about it now.

Hannah Shakeshaft

Hannah would not have landed the Ranger role without enrolling on the Lifelong Learning course and receiving a glowing reference from her tutor, Carol, for her application.

She has spent more than a decade at Birkenhead Park and is part of the push to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.

Hannah has also come full circle and now gives back to Lifelong Learning Service by teaching a Level 1 Award in Outdoor Learning.

I was never a great gardener, but the course sparked something in me and made me realise there was more that I needed to be doing. There was something in the back of my mind telling me to apply and I've never looked back.
There was something in my application that clearly showed I loved working outdoors and knew that's where I needed to be. I grew up in Birkenhead and this is my park. I absolutely love it.

Hannah Shakeshaft

Are you interested in signing up to a Wirral Lifelong Learning Service course?  

The curriculum on offer includes; 