Beverly Garland - FdA Early Years Care And Education

What made you decide to come to the University of Portsmouth to enrol on your course?

I wanted to enhance my learning in my field of childcare, reflect on my work and experience new challenges and opportunities in my career. The FdA in Early years Childcare and Education.

Portsmouth University offered the flexibility I needed in terms of the day, the length of the course and the opportunity to attend the 'satellite' site at St Vincent in Gosport. This was extremely useful, particularly as I had a young family to consider! Also, colleagues, who had previously participated on the course recommended it highly, as it would develop my knowledge and experience as well as enhancing my personal development.

How have you found the course?

I enjoyed getting to grips with the studies and assignments and found each module interesting and challenging in a productive way. I was willing to learn and take on these challenges and, naturally, I enjoyed some modules more than others. The course is relevant to the changing demands of the child care profession, educational legislation and it offers a variety of modules and levels of study to suit a variety of circumstances.

How have you found life at the University of Portsmouth and what aspects of being a student here have you valued?

We were very lucky that our student class created a sort of 'family' environment whilst at University, which in turn formulated a natural and consistent support system between ourselves as a whole group and as individuals. I personally appreciated this element and found it invaluable throughout the three years of study. The tutors that we had also gave me constant guidance all the way through the course, moving me forward and offering me ways to work on any areas that I was not so confident in. The library staff are incredibly helpful and patient and would go out of their way to ensure you were able to access the resources needed to complete your work.

Would you recommend your course and/or studying with the School of Education and Continuing Studies to others?

Yes absolutely! I would encourage anyone who is interested in early years to consider studying at a higher level. It is incredibly stimulating and very rewarding and when you reflect and look back at what you have learnt, it helps you decide how you can move forward in a very productive way. You are totally supported but not smothered and there is a real community spirit within the University. In fact, I know I will miss it all in many ways and it will now seem very strange not to be studying!