Graduate Apprenticeship Spotlight - Rebecca Black
#ScotAppWeek23 Scottish Apprenticeship Week is a window into the world of apprenticeships, to help people see what work-based learning is like and the wide variety of opportunities available.
At UHI Perth, we work closely with all Senior Secondary schools in Perth and Kinross to respond to local and national employment opportunities through both vocational and academic paths. As one of the largest partners in UHI, we are able to offer a wide range of areas of study from entry level to postgraduate.
After successfully completing a Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services, Rebecca went on to do a Graduate Apprenticeship. She chats to us about her experience 👇
Can you introduce yourself?
Hi, my name is Rebecca Black, from Perth.
What courses did you study at UHI Perth, and in what year did you complete your studies?
During my time at school, I studied the NPA Childhood Practice as well as the Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services. This then led on to me completing the Graduate Apprenticeship in Early Learning and Childcare in 2022.
“This course is the first Graduate Apprenticeship in Early Learning and Childcare in Scotland and is unique in its structure and delivery. The programme offers you and your employer a work-based learning route that is mutually beneficial: your employer benefits from your growing competency and skillset, and you 'earn while you learn', gaining experience in your industry and increasing your potential to progress in your career, while achieving your degree.
This course is ideal for those new to the sector wishing to gain practitioner registration requirements or those currently in the sector wishing to enhance their practitioner skills and knowledge.”
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
We had a talk from the college in an assembly at either the end of S4 or beginning of S5 and I knew I had to get involved.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
From May 2016, I had begun volunteering with the charity SHIP where we supported children with complex additional support needs on a one-to-one basis most days of the week and during the holidays from school.
Why did you decide to progress from the Foundation Apprenticeship to the Graduate Apprenticeship?
From my time volunteering, I knew that the childcare route was for me. Angela Barrie had told our class about this amazing opportunity that was coming up. I wasn’t sure if I would get in, but I took the chance and applied anyway - and I’m very glad I did!
What was your favourite thing about the course?
I loved the fact I was in a stable placement for the full three years. This allowed for building relationships and gaining responsibility within the setting. The best part of the course was when I started working with my own group of children and having the responsibility of being a key worker.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
There were many highs and lows of the course- the most memorable moments were receiving my first A! I have never been academic and found the placement part of the course easier than the writing but having a day of study really helped with focus.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
From my work placement I have gained confidence in myself and my practice which has supported me into taking on responsibility and supporting others. Through the reflective module I have been able to reflect on my own practice.
How did the Foundation Apprenticeship help you to decide your next steps?
After the Foundation Apprenticeship, I knew I was going to continue in childcare and was getting ready to apply for the HNC before finding the Graduate Apprenticeship. My tutors were all so encouraging and supportive.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from staff?
I could not fault my personal academic tutor. She was always so caring and enthusiastic especially during placement visits. The fact that all of the modules were online was difficult, but we were given lots of support and having the day to study on a Friday definitely helped.
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
I liked the use of the library and gym and will continue using the gym as an alumnus.
What have you been up to since graduation? Are you currently employed?
Since finishing the Graduate Apprenticeship, I have worked my way up through the charity SHIP to become the Service Coordinator. There are definitely lots of challenges but seeing the children and young people having fun makes the job worth it!
Do you feel your studies have helped you with your career?
My studies have definitely helped in many ways. I have especially used the leadership module to shape what kind of leader I want to be in my new role.
What are your future career plans?
I will go back to studying the last year of the BA in Childhood Practice to expand on my knowledge and open up further opportunities for my future.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Honestly the highlight of the course was having such a supportive academic tutor whom I always knew I could go to for anything – thank you, Tracy!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
It does get tough at times, I can’t lie, but there’s always someone to talk to for support!
