When Kerris joined Herefordshire College to study the T Level in Early Years Education and Childcare, she was looking for a fresh start.
After initially attending a sixth form, Kerris quickly realised it wasn’t the right environment for her.
“I knew after about a month that it wasn’t for me,” she explained. “A friend who had done the course at Herefordshire College recommended it, so I decided to make the move, and I’ve never looked back!”
Now preparing to begin Psychology and Education at Aberystwyth University this September, Kerris credits her time at college with transforming both her confidence and her future ambitions.
“I’ve loved every moment of it. It’s definitely built my confidence a lot. I was very shy before coming here and wouldn’t put my hand up or speak much in class.
Kerris particularly praised the support of her tutors, who helped her recognise her own progress and encouraged her to aim high.
“My confidence has grown massively. I try new things now and push myself more. The support here has been incredible.”
A Head Start for University
Kerris has secured an unconditional offer from Aberystwyth University after impressing through a scholarship application process.
“When I got the email, I was actually at college with my tutor. I checked my inbox and saw ‘Congratulations’, I was so proud of myself!
The T Level has given Kerris a strong academic foundation for her degree, particularly through its in-depth exploration of child development and psychology.
“It’s broadened my knowledge so much that when we spoke to the university about what I’d already studied, I’d already covered much of the foundation-level content.
“It means I’m starting university feeling really prepared.”
Future Plans
Kerris hopes to specialise in play therapy, supporting younger children to communicate and process emotions through guided play.
She believes the course opens far more doors than many people realise.
“People often think Early Years only leads to teaching or nursery work, but that’s completely wrong.
“I’m going into child psychology, and universities have been really impressed with the knowledge we gain on this course. It gives you a brilliant starting point for so many careers working with children.”
As part of the T Level, Kerris completed extensive placement hours at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Ross-on-Wye, where she gained hands-on experience working with children in a professional setting.
“I’ve absolutely loved it. I’ve been on trips, had experiences I never thought I’d get through college, and learned so much.
“The communication between college and placement has been excellent, which made the whole experience really supportive.”
The placement also helped Kerris see first-hand the positive impact of working in a well-supported educational environment.
From university applications to personal statement guidance, Kerris says support from tutors and student services made the process far less daunting.
“We had dedicated time in college to complete our university applications together, and there was always someone there to answer questions and help.
“That support made such a difference.”
For students considering the T Level in Early Years Education and Childcare, Kerris has one clear piece of advice:
“Learn your theorists early and keep revising them! That’s the hardest part, but it makes everything else much easier.”
And would she recommend Herefordshire College?
“100%, definitely. I already have.”
Find out more about Kerris’s Course: HERE