Student Spotlight - Anna Mucha
If you’re looking to gain a recognised qualification in Social Services, without studying full time, our SVQ3 Social Services (Children and Young People) allows you to do this with on-the-job training. Having recently completed the qualification, Anna chats to us about her experience.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Anna Mucha and I am originally from Poole, Dorset. My family moved up to Perth five years ago, as my husband is from here. I work for Coupar Angus Nursery, currently as a Play Assistant.
What qualification did you complete with Perth College UHI?
I studied SQV 3 Social Services, Children and Young People.
Why did you decide to gain a qualification through Perth College UHI?
I decided to gain this qualification through Perth College UHI as it was recommended by colleagues.
How did you hear about the course?
My previous childcare qualifications were not recognised by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) and they recommended that I complete the SVQ 3, so that I could practice as an Early Years Practitioner in Scotland.
Completing a qualification and working full time can be difficult to juggle – can you describe any challenges you have faced and how you managed to overcome them?
It was daunting going back to study after such a long time, but my family and work colleagues were all supportive. Any free moment I had, I would focus on my study and get my head down and plough on.
How have you found the style of teaching and the support you have received from your trainer, employer, and assessors?
I found my trainer Fiona to be very supportive and encouraging. She knew that due to my previous experience and knowledge I wanted to get my work done and was great at setting my assessments in a timely manner. I found that the course flowed well, and I was able to get the support I needed from my work.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments?
I have two standout moments: one was when Fiona visited my setting to observe my practice with the children. I explained to the children that Fiona was coming to see us, and together we planned out an activity around their interests. They thoroughly enjoyed Fiona’s visit and one child kept asking when she was going to visit again! And the second was when I received the email from Fiona to say that I had completed my SVQ 3. All the hard work and effort had been worth it, and I was so happy to finally be able to be an ECP in Scotland! The reaction of my work colleagues was brilliant when I told them – one even gave me a wee bottle of bubbly! They are such a great supportive team.
How do you feel your qualification will help you in your career progression? What are your career goals and plans?
By gaining my SVQ 3 qualification, I am now able to register with the SSSC as an Early Years Practitioner. I will be able to progress in my career and I am considering studying the Childhood Practice Degree with Perth College UHI next.
Do you have any hobbies or other interests, outside of your work?
Outside of work, I like to go for walks with my family and take my children to visit places of interest - exploring the beauty of Scotland. My husband is in the Royal Navy, so family time is really important to us. I like to read and am a complete Harry Potter nerd – recently we visited the Lonely Broomstick in Falkirk for a potion making class which was a lot of fun and gave me some ideas for the creative area at work!
And finally, what advice would you give to anyone thinking about doing a similar qualification with Perth College UHI?
If anyone is thinking of doing this qualification, I would say go for it! Perth College UHI were really helpful, and my tutor was fab. I’m so glad I chose to study with them.
