Keely Webb-Davies graduated with a BA (Hons) in Integrated Working with Children and Families this year. Here she reflects on her journey through Higher Education.
“Before embarking on my studies, I worked in a nursery setting as a nursery practitioner. I always thought about going to university as I always had the curiosity to learn more about children’s development, therefore took the plunge when my daughter was in primary school and completed the Early Years Foundation Degree also at the University of Worcester. When completing this I enjoyed discovering myself as a practitioner, however, I felt I wanted to explore this further and enrolled on the Integrated Working with Children and Families BA Hons.
On this course, I enjoyed the professional practice and enquiry module as it requires you to reflect on your practice and in turn gives you confidence to evolve as a practitioner. I also surprised myself by enjoying the dissertation. Initially the 9000-word limit scared me, however, I loved being able to research a topic chosen through my own interest and then exploring other professionals’ views and opinions on the topic, to deepen my understanding captivated me as it disturbed my own thinking and led me to consider other viewpoints on the subject rather than researching literature that support my own opinions.
I found having confidence in my own abilities a challenge when completing my studies. I think it is important to not be too hard on yourself and allow yourself time off to do things you enjoy. The support of the lecturers on the Integrated Working with Children and Families’ course is simply invaluable as they are “queens of encouragement” and engage with group discussions in face-to-face sessions creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
My studies have not finished, I am now going to embark on the social work MA which I never once considered when starting my studies. Engaging with different modules has sparked new interests and would love to explore working with families at a different level to continue with my ongoing professional development.”
If you would like to find out more about the courses that Keely has studied with us, visit the webpages:
FdA Early Years (0-8 years) Flexible and Distributed Learning