Expand your SEN knowledge with a course like student Kyra

Ensuring you have as much knowledge in the job role you are working in and enrolling on a course can be the difference between just a job and excelling in your career! If you're a teaching assistant like student Kyra, gaining extra knowledge in SEN can really make a difference in a child's life!

When your job role involves supporting others, ongoing learning and developing knowledge can be of the utmost importance and  Kyra recognised that. She enrolled on our Special Educational Needs Level 3 course in order to give her best when working with SEN children in her school based role.

We caught up with Kyra to understand why she chose her course and her future plans now she's completed it...

What's your background in terms of education?

I achieved a range of GCSEs at grades A* - C and went on to study Level 3 in Childcare and Education where I was awarded an A grade for the course.

What made you want to study your chosen subject/course?

I have always been passionate about supporting children with Special Educational Needs. I volunteered at a special needs summer camp for a couple of years; and have been working professionally with SEN children for around 4 years now.

Working as a one to one support assistant in a school means that the needs of children I work with can differ, so I wanted to widen my knowledge around different areas and aspects of special needs.

What was your motivation for studying our SEN course?

It may sound a little cheesy but my motivation for this course was the little boy I was working with, who has Down Syndrome. Studying and completing the SEN Level 3 course gave me the assurance that I was educating and caring for him correctly. Seeing his smiling face every day helped too!

Why did you choose distance learning over traditional study methods?

I chose distance learning because it meant I could continue with my job and fit studying around my life; not the other way around.

Why did you choose to study with Open Study College?

I researched different distance learning providers. I chose Open Study College because their support towards students is amazing and the courses are affordable.

What have you enjoyed most about your studies?

The part I have enjoyed most is how much it has opened my eyes about certain areas. I have learnt a lot and have enjoyed being able to put my new knowledge into practice.

What do you plan to do with your course after completing your studies?

I intend to continue my job as a 1:1 and support lots of children with different disabilities and conditions. The new information, knowledge and skills I have learnt through studying the course will help me to care for them and meet their needs.

Do you plan to study any further in the future?

I plan to continue learning as much as I can about SEN to be the very best I can be at my job. I’ll potentially look at doing a degree in the future if/ when it becomes relevant for me.

What are your career goals?

I adore my job but I am also enjoying learning British Sign Language and hope to incorporate that into my work more at some point.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

I have loved completing the SEN Level 3 course with Open Study College, and want to thank my tutor Sadie for her support.

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If you're interested in working with children, we have a range of courses to help you achieve your dreams. Whether it's becoming a registered childminder, nursery nurse, teaching assistant or childhood counsellor, contact us to find out how distance learning can kick start your career, or browse all childcare courses on our website.