I have always had a passion for Early Years, having over 15 years’ experience in nurseries, community work, playgroups and my current role within a reception class.

I have always loved study and developing and updating my skills and I came across the PGCE Early Years as I browsed the internet for Early Years courses. I did not know this route existed! I applied thinking ‘why not?’ and well, I’m so glad I made the decision. I really enjoy ‘hands on’ experience so the thought of this course being work-based was a huge pull.  The idea of collecting evidence really appealed to me too.

I found that the tutors were amazing – really supportive. Nothing was never any trouble and they would reply to any queries promptly. The lectures I attended for the modules were informative, useful and relevant.  Even after being there all day and you just wanted to get home, they were inspiring so never a waste of time.  I found the modules interesting and I am glad I carried on studying them.  It was hard going at times finding time to research theorists for the assignments whilst gathering evidence alongside a full-time job but if you manage your time well it is completely achievable. I am not sure whether to continue with my Master’s yet as I am working full time in a teaching role, but I wouldn’t rule it out in the future.

Time on the course flew by and before I knew it my first observation was looming. I was very nervous about this but as soon as my UAM arrived I was put at ease and it went smoothly – well, as smoothly as baking with a group of 4- and 5-year olds can go!! I learnt quickly not to overthink the observations – don’t make the session too complicated!

My second placement was in a nursery setting with 2-year olds. If I’m honest, this was a challenging experience.  Mainly because it was not consistent.  Due to work commitments I had to spread my time over several months. This made building relationships hard and meant that the staff I was working with couldn’t remember what I would be doing for my next session. I also came across many barriers to leading the staff team and getting them on board with any changes I wanted to make – this was frustrating but I ultimately grew as a professional from the experience!!

Since gaining my EYTS I have successfully completed my QTS assessment only route through Derby University. The tutors were very helpful in pointing me in the right direction and I completed this in less than 12 weeks due to confidence in gathering evidence for the teacher standards following the EYTS course.  I would never have considered this before, so I am grateful to the EYTS programme for giving me the confidence to go for it. I really haven’t looked back at all since I first started the EYTS.

In doing my EYTS I feel it has opened so many doors for me. I am now actively involved in Maths Hub sessions which I didn’t know about before and I now lead maths within my workplace as a result.  I am also attending Early Years network meetings and conferences which enable me to share practice with other Early Years professionals.