Ashley Ritch

Why did you decide to apply for the PDA Education Support Assistant course?

I decided to apply as I felt it would be relevant to me in my job as a Learning Support Worker. I’m always keen to learn and progress, so I felt this course would be worthwhile and would give me a recognised qualification at the end.

Can you tell us what you have enjoyed most about studying at Shetland UHI?

Despite the restrictions Covid-19 has brought, I have enjoyed studying at the Shetland UHI. My course has been mainly online due to restrictions but has still worked well.

Most of the students in my class all work in different schools, so it has been so interesting and worthwhile learning about how different schools do things and has given me lots of ideas on things to try and do differently.

What advice would you give someone who was interested in studying the course?

I’d definitely advise them to go for it! Not only is it a course in which you’ll learn from, it’s also one which gives you a recognised qualification at the end which can help you further your career.

Don’t be put off by assignments, they really aren’t as bad as you’re thinking! The lecturer is always on hand to answer any questions you have.

How has the course impacted your professional role?

I have learnt so much which has made me more confident in my work. It’s also made me realise just why we do some of the things we do, I've found learning the theory behind our practise has been so interesting.