Graduate Thoughts: BA (Hons) Childhood Practice
Our online BA (Hons) in Childhood Practice offers practitioners in a wide range of childhood practice settings the opportunity to gain the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) recognised qualification to be a lead practitioner. We caught up with graduates Lindsey and Alana about their online experience of the course.
Hi both, can you start by telling us a little bit about yourselves?
Lindsey: My name is Lindsey, and I have been living in Elgin for 14 years. I am married with three children, with only my youngest currently in school. I work as a senior nursery nurse at the UHI Moray nursery in Elgin.
Alana: I work in early years, 3-5 year olds, but have worked with 0-12 year olds throughout my work life.
Why did you choose to study with us?
Lindsey: I chose to study with UHI Moray again because of the positive experience I had during my previous studies. The online course format, combined with support from lecturers and fellow students, allowed me to balance my work and family life while pursuing my education.
Additionally, UHI Moray's local presence made it easy for me to access the Student Services Centre when needed. My earlier experience with UHI, felt supported and connected despite the online nature of the program, made it an easy decision to return.
Alana: I had previously completed my HNC in Childhood Practice at UHI Moray when I was straight out of high school, so knew it well and seemed like the best place to move forward with my qualifications.
You both studied our BA (Hons) Childhood Practice, do you feel like the course developed your knowledge and skills?
Lindsey: The course has significantly developed my knowledge, skills, and overall experience. One of the key aspects was deepening my understanding of child development, especially in the critical early years, which has directly impacted my practice as a senior nursery nurse. The course provided valuable theoretical knowledge that I could apply in real-life situations. For instance, I now use a wider range of strategies to support children, parents and my co-workers. The course also enhanced my leadership skills, not only in my work with the children but also with my colleagues. I have been able to share the knowledge and techniques I have gained, fostering a culture of continuous learning within our team.
Alana: I am much more confident in my knowledge and know the decisions I am making are knowledge-based and there is a reason behind everything I am doing.
The course requires you to be employed during your studies, was that challenging?
Lindsey: Balancing my work, family and studies was sometimes difficult, especially when my husband was away for extended period of times with work. Without the structure of in-person classes, I had to stay self-motivated and disciplined, which at times was challenging. There were also times when I missed the online classes with lecturers and fellow students, which could make clarifying concepts or engaging in discussions a bit harder.
Alana: Being online meant that you had to interpret how somethings were and sometimes left you feeling unsure if you were on the right track. However, there are group chats for all modules and everyone on the course is there to help and relates to how you are feeling. Motivation and staying on track was occasionally a struggle but you remind yourself why you are doing it.
Have your studies have helped you with your career?
Lindsey: Studying the course has enhanced my level of experience and expertise, putting me in a position to move forward in my career if and when the time is right.
Alana: It’s allowed me to be more knowledgeable and build my confidence with everything surrounding my career. Aspects of the course pushed me out of my comfort zone, which helped me within my career to push myself.
Finally, what are your highlights of studying at UHI Moray?
Lindsey: Although, studying online can sometimes feel isolating, the friendships I made through our WhatsApp group were a huge support throughout the two years. Despite most of us never meeting in person during the course, we formed strong connections that really helped me get through the challenge of studying. On graduation day, we finally had the chance to meet in person, which made the experience even more special!
Alana: The staff of UHI Moray were so helpful, and I couldn’t thank them enough for helping me on my journey.
If you enjoy spending time with children and you’re passionate about helping them grow and learn, you can jump into our BA (Hons) in Childhood Practice this January.