Role Model Aspirations in Reach for Early Years Course Student

On the day of her induction, Katie Taylor arrived at the University of Bolton, nervous and overwhelmed. Not knowing where she was going, who her tutors were, or what services were available to support her throughout her time at university were creating anxious pressure.

Now that she has settled, she feels calmer and more in control, navigating the university with confidence and getting all the support she needs from her tutors, private tutor and support services, allowing her to manage any concerns or challenges she faces.

Katie praises the Early Years course for its ability to provide her with new and valuable information during each lecture, giving her the knowledge and understanding to build further confidence during her placement. This includes drafting essays and further reading on chosen topics to enhance her understanding and support her academic endeavours.

‘What I like about the Early Years course is that I am gaining more and new information within each of the lectures that I have each week, which I will be able to take away with me and put into practice.’

The supportive nature of the Early Years course tutors is where Kaite feels she has really benefited.

‘What I like about the Early Years course is that the tutors are super helpful and will always be there to answer any questions about the essay and support you through the lectures, giving you suggestions on what books and websites are helpful.’

Additionally, Katie found the one-to-one tutorials invaluable, allowing her to express how she was progressing with university life, coursework, and if she needed any further support during lectures.

Katie enrolled at the University of Bolton to fulfil her aspiration to become a Speech and Language Therapist. Drawing from her personal experience of undergoing speech and language therapy as a child, she was driven by the desire to support children and their families who face speech, language, and communication difficulties, as well as special educational needs and disabilities.

Katie aims to provide these children with the same opportunities she had during her own therapy sessions. Having gone through similar experiences herself, she empathises with the challenges these children encounter and seeks to serve as a positive role model for them.

‘I would love to be able to give children that need Speech and Language therapy the same opportunity that I had as a young child, as I also know how the child is feeling and I want to be a role model to them.’

Ultimately, Katie hopes to inspire children undergoing speech and language therapy to give them the belief in their ability to achieve their goals, despite the obstacles they may face. An The course has opened up so many career options, Katie is also considering a career in teaching first years or becoming a teaching assistant.

Katie’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and personal experience. Through unwavering determination, steadfast support and a profound sense of purpose, she is not only shaping her own future but also paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for those in need of a guiding light.