Lisa – Childcare Level 1, 2 and 3
Having spent time as a carer for her parents, the tragic death of both her mum and dad prompted Lisa to consider her own future, as she began to explore study options at local colleges.
Making the decision to return to college in 2015, Lisa enrolled upon the Level 1 Caring for Children course at Preston’s College.
Commenting, she said:
“Despite enrolling upon the Level 1 course, I never really imagined I’d work with children. In honesty, I saw it as more of a ‘mid-life crisis’, coupled with an opportunity to try something new.”
Despite this initial apprehension, and enjoying the Level 1 course immensely, Lisa decided to progress her studies, continuing onto the Level 2 Children and Young People’s Workforce programme at Preston’s College. As part of this one year programme Lisa undertook a voluntary placement at Cottam Nursery and impressed the team so much, she was offered a full-time position within the nursery.
Upon successful completion of her Level 2 qualification, Lisa commenced employment at the nursery and was able to progress onto the Level 3 Early Years Educator course, which she studied as an apprenticeship. This allowed Lisa to work in the nursery setting for the majority of the week, with attendance at college to study the theoretical elements of the programme.
Having worked at the nursery for five years, Lisa is now training to be a SENDCO, a role which will see her take on additional responsibilities including advising and supporting colleagues, liaising with professionals or agencies beyond the setting and ensuring a smooth onward transition to school for pre-school children. In addition, just this week Lisa has learnt that she will also be promoted to Nursery Deputy Manager!
Commenting about her time on the courses at Preston’s College, Lisa said:
“My tutor, Helen, was wonderful. There were times when I wanted to quit but she encouraged me to continue. The course gave me the confidence I needed after my parents passed away and I now have a job that I love and amazing colleagues.”