Student Spotlight - Courtney Mchattie

The expansion of funded early learning and childcare by the Scottish Government will create thousands of high quality and well-paid jobs across Scotland. At UHI Perth, we are delighted to be offering a range of relevant and registrable qualifications for those wishing to work in this exciting and important sector.

As she is away to embark on her third year at UHI Perth, Courtney chatted to us about her experience so far 👇

What is your name, and where are you from?

Hi, my name is Courtney Mchattie. I am 19 years old, and I am from Perth, Scotland.

What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?

I am studying HNC Childhood Practice and I am in my first year of the course.

I completed two years previous doing NQ and NC Childcare, which I really enjoyed.

How did you hear about UHI Perth?

When I was in high school, I started to think about where I was going to go and what I wanted to do. I met up with my career advisor and she told me about UHI Perth.

What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?

I was attending Perth Academy school, where I completed up to 5th year, and then I started my journey at UHI Perth studying childcare and my subjects at school.

Why did you decide to pick this course?

I picked a childcare course because I did work experience in Primary 3/4 at Letham when I was in high school. During my time there, I fell in love with being able to help and support the children and the teacher. It built my confidence up being able to help the younger children.

What is your favourite thing about the course?

My favourite part was the placement - I went to a nursery and the staff were really friendly and supportive, and all the children were so friendly and full of joy. I got to see how the children learn and develop and I just knew that this was something I wanted to do.

Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?

During the placement, there was a child who was always excited to see me and talked about me when they went home. They would want me to sit beside them for lunch and carpet time and when they are in the nursery garden, they would run over to me, and we would play tig a lot! When balancing on the wood panels, they would ask for my hand to help them while balancing and seeing how happy the child was made me smile all the time.

What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?

The courses I have completed have helped me with the knowledge on how to support children with ASN. It has also been great learning about teamwork - myself and my fellow students had to do a class project where we had to work together to be able to complete the task.

I feel that I am a much more confident person because of the support I had, but also the knowledge I have gained from lecturers and my mentor has helped me so much. I am looking forward to the new challenge of the HNC course that I am taking this year.

Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?

I went to placement in a nursery which I was really nervous for when I first started but I have gained confidence during my time at placement, and I have really enjoyed it.

Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?

My lecturers have been really supportive during my time in UHI Perth and I would have been lost without them.

Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?

I achieved the Childcare Award at Prizegiving.

What do you like about the campus/facilities?  

I really enjoy the rock-climbing facilities and the gym; the cafeteria is nice and the staff are all friendly and welcoming.

Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?

I’ve had the best time studying at UHI Perth! It’s been amazing making new friends and creating unforgettable memories along the way.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?

I enjoy football - whether I’m playing or watching, its always a thrilling experience.

What are your future career plans?

My future plans are to work in a nursery or school helping and supporting the children.

And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?

To never give up and to ask for help if you need it because there is always someone here to help you. But also, to have fun, while you’re studying at UHI Perth!

📍If you would like to look around the UHI Perth campus, and meet our friendly staff, come along to our next Open Day on Saturday 28 October from 10am-2pm.