Mandy Eggington - BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies
Mandy was working as a staff nurse when she decided to start volunteering one day a week at a school. Before long, she was inspired to begin a course
She took the Educare foundation degree here at Derby (no longer running but replaced by FdA Children and Young People's Services). She then moved onto the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies.
I loved the courses
"I loved the courses. They were hard work, but fantastic. I worked out the units of study so that I only had to come to uni twice a week. This meant that every week, I worked 30 hours at the hospital, came to uni twice and did a voluntary day in a school!"
It's surprising what you can achieve when you put your mind to it
"I also have a husband and daughter to add into the equation. A bit exhausting, but when you strive to do something, it's surprising what you can do. There were times during the courses when I could easily have 'thrown in the towel, but family and friends gave support and encouragement to see me through."
"I initially did some supply teaching in Key Stages 1 and 2, which gave me great experience and my confidence grew. I'm at an inner city school in Nottingham, which has its challenging moments - but the children are great. I'm really enjoying teaching."
I've now got a great job
"From September, I'll have a permanent full time job as a class teacher at Nottingham Girls' High School. No doubt the challenges will be different from then onwards. I can't wait! I just wish I'd had the confidence to have a go at a degree years ago."
