Which school do you work at?
I work at Hempstalls Primary School.
Mum of 2 Ruth Louise chose to retrain in Early Years to begin a rewarding career in education. As part of #LearningatWorkWeek, she shares her experiences of heading back into education as an adult learner.
Stepping into college for the first time was daunting, but the course has opened my eyes to what is possible and makes me excited for my future career.
Ruth Louise, Level 2 Diploma for the Early Years Practitioner
What kind of jobs have you done before deciding to retrain?
I have had a variety of jobs in the past ranging from working in TV, working on the airlines, language tutor and optical consultant.
Why did you decide to study the Level 2 Early Years course at NSCG?
It's been a long time since I've been in education. I have a degree in History and Archaeology, and having worked in a few different roles, I decided to look at retraining for a career in education and NSCG was an obvious choice. I have two lovely girls myself, and I feel like the job and the course compliment my work and home life.
Stepping into college on your first day, wow did you feel?
It was daunting stepping into college on my first day as I havent studied for some time. I got totally lost! As soon as I got into the classroom I felt completely at ease, my tutor and the rest of the group were really welcoming and made me feel comfortable and included.
Describe the key skills you’ve developed so far on the course?
I have learnt a lot about developmental play and safeguarding children in my setting. The course has elevated my confidence tenfold, so that's been life-changing.
How do you balance college with work and home life?
This is a bit of a struggle as I'm a single parent with two young children. Between my work, studies and family life, I have to organise my time carefully, but so far, I am doing OK! The workload is manageable and there is lots of support from my tutor and fellow colleagues.
How is the course helping you to achieve your career ambitions?
I have only been on the course for a short period of time, but I am already using the theories I have learnt in my college at school. The course has opened my eyes to what is possible and makes me excited for my future career. I've grown in confidence both in my academic work and in school.
What's next for you?
On completion of the Level 2 course, I'm hoping to progress onto Level 3. I'm just really looking forward to lots of learning and meeting other adult learners to share experiences with. I also feel that being an adult learner is important as it imperative that we keep going and learning new things no matter what our age.
How are your tutors supporting you to succeed?
The tutors and assessors have been great at answering any questions I have on how the course works and the way I study and record my work. It was hard at first navigating the different online college sites but with help, I am feeling more confident. The tutors are easy to reach and very approachable and helpful.
What are your top tips for anyone thinking of signing up for a part time course?
Just go for it, any concerns you have on time or workload can be discussed and worked out with your tutor. There is lots of support and understanding. Any worries you may have on the technology side (I was worried my lack of computer skills my hinder me) are easily solved. My top tip is communication, just stay connected with the tutor, assessor and class and any concerns quickly vanish. Give yourself plenty of credit and time - it's not easy getting back into studying, but the rewards are huge and you will love it.