Chelsea Rudd - Apprenticeship in Supporting Teaching and Learning & BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies

My aspiration was to become a primary school teacher and I studied for my apprenticeship with West Lynn Primary School as my employer.

I chose CWA as it was well-known in the local area. I knew that the apprenticeship programme here would suit me well, provide me with new opportunities and ensure that I achieve my goals with support from the tutors.

The main content of my apprenticeship was to understand child development and link theory to practice. I was also working five days a week, so developing my knowledge, alongside experience was a valuable factor.

I chose to study an apprenticeship since I had just finished sixth form but wasn’t ready for university. The programme helped bridge the gap between work and learning as I got to experience the proper working environment while also focusing on my studies. I found that it gave me crucial classroom experience that I needed to progress in my career.

Upon completing my course, I went on to study BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies at University Centre West Anglia for three years, which helped me progress on to do my one year Post Graduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) at The Norfolk Teacher Training Centre.

My time at CWA enabled me to create a work/life balance. I developed time management skills that supported me throughout my degree.

I am now an ECT (Early Careers Teacher) with Norfolk County Council as the Appropriate Body and am currently working at West Lynn Primary School as a Year 3 Class Teacher.

If you are thinking about studying an apprenticeship at the college, go for it. It will provide you with important life skills and knowledge, all of which are transferable into many job roles.