Returning to part-time education is ‘child’s play’ for Ashley

Changing career and returning to education can be a daunting task, but for one student, this was a challenge she was willing to take on when she decided to enrol on the Childhood Practice HNC Part-time course at Borders College.

Ashley Currie, who is 32 and a single mum from Kelso, decided to improve her career prospects by signing up to the course 2 years ago after spotting an advert on the Borders College Facebook Page. The course was perfect for Ashley, as she would be able to study part-time on a Tuesday evening, while also being able to work part-time in her job at Sainsbury’s in Kelso. Ashley, who hopes to finish her studies and be fully qualified in June, also relished the chance to work in area she was passionate about.

Ashley, a keen horse enthusiast in her spare time, says her time at College has been really positive saying:
“The thought of getting back in to education while working full-time was a bit daunting, but after signing up, I realised it was a decision I would not regret. The lecturers have been very supportive throughout my time here and I have enjoyed learning new skills and meeting other people studying alongside me. I would strongly recommend this course to anyone looking to study in this area. ”

Ashley also took up a placement at Yetholm Primary School while studying at College adding:
“My long term career objective is to be working as a Classroom Assistant, so working with young children in an educational environment has been a great experience for me.”

Catherine Douglas, who is Ashley’s supervisor at Yetholm Primary School, commented:
“Ashley has shown great progress and initiative in her placement in Yetholm. She has excellent relationships with pupils, staff and parents. She has great ideas to develop learning in our environment and is happy to share these with us. We are all really pleased with Ashley. She has really become part of our team.”

During her time at College, Ashley has excelled in her studies, showing great enthusiasm, while also being a great help to her classmates. College

Lecturer Mandy Dougall commented:
“Ashley has demonstrated that she has the formula for success, she has a strong work ethic with a ‘can do’ attitude, furthermore she is supportive of her peers, all of these factors have led to positive outcomes for Ashley.”

Another of Ashley’s lecturers, Eileen Graham said:
“In her time at College I have found Ashley to be an excellent student. She has an admirable work ethic, showing commitment to her college and placement work and is always well organised and conscientious. She has an excellent relationship with her peers whom she is extremely supportive of.”