Christine Lethaby

What made you pick this particular course?
I chose this course at Petroc as I was nearing the end of a level 4 Diploma, this led me to start thinking about career and progression with in Health and Social Care. The level 5 Foundation Degree seemed like the next step to further my prospects. The Petroc course was delivered from the Tiverton/ Barnstaple campus, this made it a viable option for me, as travel to the nearest university would not have been possible due to the location I live in being quite rural and having younger children who needed to get of to school.

What did you most enjoy about studying at Petroc?
I found that the tutors all had a passion for teaching their models which made learning interesting. Tutors were always friendly and available and this was reassuring. The modules all provided in-depth knowledge and I have been able to come away and use this to further my career. The course was flexible which made it less stressful. These combined made the overall experience enjoyable and even though there were difficult parts, Tutors were encouraging and happy to help where, when, and if needed.

Did you undertake any work experience throughout your studies?
Yes, I undertook work experience with a company called Family Compass which is based in Barnstaple. The company worked primarily with adoption families needing therapeutic support. They made my time with them enjoyable, I was able to shadow the therapist and the front desk and visit schools with the therapy boxes that Family Compass has produced to help ease the pressure on the therapy waiting list. It was eye-opening and interesting to see new interventions being implemented to help with the demand for services. It was also good to see that interventions were being made for specific areas of needs that were not previously in place before Family Compass.

What do you plan to do when you leave Petroc?
I had planned to continue to do the honours degree with Petroc then the plan was to apply for the step-up to the social work scheme. I now have a job with the NHS as a support worker for the Tiverton mental health team. Having the Foundation Degree has opened up opportunities I would not have had previously.

Any advice for someone thinking of choosing the same course as you?
I would say to go for it! It has been such an experience and I have learned so much and gained new perspectives in my personal and profession life. As a mature student already working with a young family I did wonder if it was achievable, It can be difficult, especially when you have one or more deadlines due, but it feels so rewarding to complete the modules and feels an achievement!