Faraza began her studies on the Foundation Degree in Early Years at the University of Worcester, before progressing onto the BA (Hons) IWCF Top up degree. Faraza chose to study at one of our Partner Colleges: Halesowen College, to attend sessions face to face on a weekly basis. Here she shares her story:
My name is Faraza and I came to this country from the Philippines. After ten years in publishing, I chose to retrain for a career working with children to fit around my young son’s needs. I had no previous higher education qualifications and the prospect of going back to study was daunting.
The University of Worcester recognised my work experience and accepted me on their FdA in Early Years course. This course shaped my career in early years helping me progress from an Early Years Practitioner to a Deputy SENCo. I went on to enrol for the BA (Hons) in Integrated Working with Children and Families (top-up). This opened up more employment opportunities even prior to completing the course.
I found the course content relevant to current practice, engaging and practical. The lecturers are approachable and supportive and provide guidance throughout. The course structure coupled with regular feedback from the lecturers prepare you well for the final assignments. I completed the course as a full time student (attending classes twice a week) whilst also working full time and being a single parent. I felt that I always had someone within the university community (both lecturers and students) who would listen and help me overcome challenges. The friendships and support network I made during my study still continue and we share good practice as well as seek advice from each other to this day. I was not only impressed, but also felt encouraged to do better when the University presented me with an Academic Achievement Scholarship Award.
The learning from this course has been transformative for me as an individual and to my practice. I continue to draw from my learning both at interviews and in dealing with everyday work situations, particularly in areas of safeguarding concerns and collaborative working. I would highly recommend the University of Worcester to anyone considering a career in childcare or working with children and families.
