I have two teenage daughters, which is a blessing and challenge within itself. I currently work in a busy office at a multicultural primary school in a deprived area. This role has given me the opportunity to work closely with children and families of all backgrounds and has really opened my eyes to the challenges they face. Before this, I spent a significant portion of my adult life working in various areas of law. Although I thoroughly enjoyed my career in law, I wanted to take a more proactive role in helping people before they reached the point of needing legal intervention. This was my reason for changing my career and has ultimately led me to this degree.

Whilst I have progressed in my current role, I am also limited in terms of the roles and responsibilities I can take on. This degree will equip me with the knowledge and tools I need to successfully help these families and make a real difference to their life. I want to be able to assist with Children in Need (CIN) matters and support looked-after children. I also hope to gain the guidance to help families and children with health and well-being and expand my knowledge and build on my experience.

I have thoroughly enjoyed online learning. Initially, I had my reservations but I received an incredible amount of encouragement and support from the course leader. During my application, I attended a taster session with the Tutors before applying for the degree and by the end I felt a surge of excitement -- I knew then this was the right course for me. I completed the Thrive+ course prior to the degree, which served as a perfect foundation to prepare us. I’m now on session five and have an upcoming assessment, and each step of the way, we’ve been made to feel supported and motivated. This degree is helping me become the best version of myself, and I’m excited about my future.

My online learning setup

There are many topics that this degree covers that I am incredibly excited to deep dive into. Although I am not necessarily aware of how to do a Podcast (yet), nevertheless I am very excited to give it a go. Most of all, I look forward to experiencing a variety of learning methods and approaches.

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About the Author

Zara is a first-year student on the part-time degree in BA(Hons) Child and Family: Mental Health.