19-year-old Fatema Jiva enrolled for the childcare and education (early years educator) level 3 diploma after leaving school as the qualification would open up a wide range of different careers in the sector.
She chose the college based on the high success rates of students and the recommendation of others – and, after completing the course, she is now working in a school.
Fatema said: “I learnt how children grow and develop and how positive relationships play a crucial part in their lives.
“I also learnt about the value of play, how to make different observations and identify strengths and weaknesses, as well as safeguarding and what to do if there are any concerns.
“The course isn’t just classroom-based learning – I also had practical placements in schools and nurseries which enabled me to further understand what I was learning and get a feel of what real working life is like.
“The tutors made sure that I understood what I was taught in every lesson and were always there for support, as were the curriculum manager and placement officers and assessors too – I don’t think I could have done it without them!
“The course really helped me to gain confidence and prepare for my future career – I got a job in a school which I was very pleased about and, now that I’m working, I know exactly what I’m doing.
“Most people think working with children is easy and all you do is play all day, but there’s a lot of planning that goes on behind the scenes and I would really recommend the course if that’s what you want to do – and go along to an open day too where you can talk to the tutors and ask any questions that you have.”
