We caught up with Millie Andrews who is studying Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator) about how her work placement has secured her a job role.
“I studied Supporting Teaching and Learning Level 3 last year and was planning on studying an Access to HE course, but my tutor, Laura Smith, encouraged me to enrol onto the Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education to help me progress to university. I want to study an English degree, with the hope of becoming an English Teacher in the future.
“For anyone who wants to go into teaching, I would definitely recommend a vocational course as you can use your practical skills and take part in different activities, like handwriting skills with children and see a child’s progression. There are work placements alongside the course so you can learn on the job as well as in the classroom.
“There are exams on the course, but it’s nothing to be worried about. At first, I was nervous at the thought of them, but my tutors calmed me down, and I was absolutely fine.
“Within the course, there are seven units in the first year and seven in the second. I’ve learnt about safeguarding, immunisations and children’s health, getting ready for school, observations, and how to support children learn maths and English. There is all sorts to learn on the course.
“I’ve really enjoyed my work placement at Overfields Primary School and becoming a practitioner rather than a student. Once you get into a placement, it opens new opportunities and you can see exactly what the real world of working in education is life. Through my placement, I have gained a job role at Overfields as a 1:1 support teacher for a child with Autism.
“There are plenty of skills I’ve learnt through my course that I use in practise in my role, like how to help resolve different issues, the best way to support children with issues going on in their lives. We learnt about Additional Needs which has been very useful in my role. I’ve been able to build trust with the child I support.
“Whilst at Middlesbrough College, I was a Student Representative and was able to find out more about the college, voice any concerns the childcare students had or any areas that needed upgrading.
“Although I am interested in becoming an English Teacher and working with older children, I’ve adored working with young children in Reception. Working at Overfields is one of the greatest things I’ve ever done so far, and I really have enjoyed it.
“The tutors are very supportive and helped in different ways, supporting with assignments. I wouldn’t change a thing about this past year!
“For anyone joining Middlesbrough College, I would advise them to not get behind on their assignments. Put yourself first to keep on top of your studies and work and you’ll ace it!”
Course: Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education (Early Years Educator)
Previous school: Outwood Academy Acklam