Telford College staff member and former student Charlotte Skinner is progressing to higher education to help develop her career working with children with high needs.
A former pupil of the Sutherland School, Charlotte first studied a vocational childcare course with the college, before choosing to work full time at the Willow Tree Centre.
The Willow Tree Centre is a self-contained learning facility located within the grounds of Telford College, providing a safe and stimulating environment for those with severe learning difficulties and complex needs.
“I was always really passionate about working with younger children and helping them develop” explains Charlotte. “However, after my childcare course, I realised helping students with higher needs was my calling.
“I really enjoyed the placements the college had for the childcare course, my final placement at the Willow Tree really opened my eyes to the different practices involved with higher needs education. I found the lessons really engaging and the lecturers were so supportive.
“After my placement, the Willow Tree staff recommended I should go for a job here and the rest is history. We teach students important life skills to prepare them for adulthood, including how to cook, shopping and other valuable skills.
“I really enjoy working here, no two days are ever the same and I feel lucky to come to work in such a great environment every single day with such a great team.
“I’m looking to expand my knowledge with a foundation degree in early years, as I want to understand the development of high needs students before they join us at aged 16. It feels like I can help students better, almost like helping to put the pieces of the jigsaw together.
“I’m choosing to study it at Telford College as I love that I can study locally; I can continue to work at the centre and stay in the area without having to commute or move away.”
After finishing her degree, Charlotte is looking to pursue a career in teaching or social work. “The best part about this degree is that it prepares me for both routes, so I can keep my career options open while I decide which I want to specialise in.”
Abigail Allen, learner manager for adult health, early years and education at Telford College, said: “Charlotte is committed to becoming the best of herself, consistently applying herself to her studies to ensure she is confident to progress onto higher level study.
“The foundation degree in early years provides passionate practitioners the opportunity to upskill, and further enhance their expert knowledge from current practice.
“Knowing that Charlotte, like so many other students, are keen to progress into HE after years of studying at Telford College shows how much students can benefit from being taught by enthusiastic, highly skilled teachers”
Inspired by Charlotte’s story and want to study an early years degree? Apply now.
