Student Spotlight - Jennifer Mair
“It has been truly transformative to go from having a job to having a career.”
The current policy from The Scottish Government to increase free early learning and childcare entitlement to all, shows a real commitment towards making Scotland the very best place in which to grow up. We offer a range of relevant and registrable qualifications for those wishing to work in this exciting and important Early Years and Childcare sector.
In this week’s blog, we meet Jennifer Mair - a student who has not long finished their course.
What course did you study?
BA Childhood Practice part-time from 2019-2024.
This fully online honours degree 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.
You will have the opportunity to relate theory to real working practice and investigate, in-depth, an area of interest to you.
The course is designed to meet the Scottish subject benchmark statement, the Standard for Childhood Practice.
On successful completion of the course, you will have acquired the skills and knowledge to move on to a lead practitioner role. Similarly, you will be well equipped to take further professional qualifications or a PGDE.
Why was this the right course for you?
It fitted into my work life balance.
What do you think about the style of teaching and the support you’ve received from tutors and lecturers?
All tutors provided excellent interactions online.
Are you currently employed?
Yes, I am employed as a Senior Early Years Practitioner. I assist in the running of a local authority nursery developing and delivering the curriculum for excellence and engaging in play-based learning.
How do you feel your studies have helped you with your career? Was there anything you did whilst at UHI that you think helped you secure your job?
I would not be the employee I am today without my studies. While my role does not require a BA, the knowledge and skills gained have played a big part in my growing confidence and abilities to take on a senior position.
What were the steps you took from graduation to your current role?
Having studied the BA, I knew my knowledge was sound and I could apply it in pursuit of a senior position.
Where would you like to go with your career in the future?
I would like to be a UHI Early Years tutor, SQA assessor, or work with families in the community to give children the best start in life.
What advice would you give to those considering studying in terms of careers and employment?
Go for it! It can be daunting to start with, but you soon incorporate studying into your life and miss it once it is over.
What are your favourite things about UHI?
The ease of access to the learning materials and tutors. The fellow students who have become good friends, even though they live far distances from me.
Is there anything else you feel like telling us about your experience at UHI?
It has been truly transformative to go from having a job to having a career - all thanks to the course provided by UHI.
