“I chose to enrol at Carshalton College as they offered the course I wanted to study plus the level of support for students. As a mother, finding out about the childcare bursary was a real bonus for me, it made something that felt difficult become possible and that was great.

I chose childcare because it gives you skills that you can integrate into life. It is an industry that isn’t going anywhere any time soon and it also provides many different career paths. We will always find ourselves around children in life, and as a mother I find the skills useful on a day to day basis.

The Childcare Level 3 course is fun and interactive, with something new every week. I particularly like the variety of learning techniques. My tutor encouraged me to apply to be college representative to attend meetings for College Governance.  I managed to succeed and that felt like a great achievement. I also achieved an A grade in my controlled assessment with the support and encouragement of my teachers. 

I attend a placement in a nursery for two days a week. This is where we implement our learning as a trainee practitioner. The placement days help with studies massively, as you learn on-hand and implement what you have learnt. It also means that if there is anything you are unsure of; you can go to your tutor and nursery manager for clarity and support. Working with children is an absolute joy!

Everything has run smoothly this year and my teachers are kind, friendly, understanding and they work hard to get you to fulfil your capabilities. I genuinely look forward to returning next year. I find the tutors on this course are always happy to hear what you have to say and to help in any way, even with personal issues.

They are there and are willing to adapt lessons to support your style of learning, making your chances of success even higher.

My advice to anyone looking to study Childcare would be to make sure you choose something you really enjoy and have an interest. Make sure you communicate when you’re struggling, support is there but most of all believe in yourself and work hard, you’re only as limited as your mind allows you to be.

My future plans are forever adapting, as there are a few routes to go around. My plan at this point in time is to go to university and begin the journey to a career in the field of social work. Generally I want to be able to help people and make a difference to quality of life in whatever line of work I decide to get into”.