Advancing Leadership and Professional Growth Through MA in Professional Practice
Rhianydd Barnes, Programme Change Manager in the Social Work profession, is nearing the successful completion of her MA in Professional Practice at the 窪蹋勛圖厙 (窪蹋勛圖厙). She credits the programme with enhancing her leadership skills, deepening her expertise in coaching, and refining her reflective practice.
This transformative learning experience has been instrumental in her career progression, empowering her to transition from frontline social work to a pivotal role in Learning and Development. Rhianydds journey exemplifies the profound impact of the MA in Professional Practice, equipping professionals with the knowledge and confidence to drive meaningful change in their fields.
She decided to undertake the MA in Professional Practice as she was committed to continue her professional development. Having already obtained several qualifications as a social worker, Rhianydd sought a Level 7 programme that would provide flexibility and an opportunity to expand her skills in leadership and management. She said:
I was drawn to the programme based on its flexibility, as you are able to study a range of topics to obtain your qualification (which includes Leadership and Management). Furthermore, the opportunity to claim credit for learning that had already taken place was an attractive element of the course, as this would allow the opportunity for reflection to take place.
One of the most impactful elements of the course for Rhianydd was the opportunity to claim for experiential learning through the Recognising and Accrediting Learning (RAL) module. This process required an in-depth reflection on past experiences, enabling Rhianydd to identify key moments that had shaped her professional journey. While the reflective process was challenging, it proved to be invaluable in appreciating herself and the skills and knowledge gained throughout her career. She adds:
Due to the in-depth reflection required as part of the course, that aspect has allowed me to appreciate and acknowledge the learning I have acquired throughout my career. The RAL module requires you to dive deep, which in turn requires you to reflect on where learning has developed, and how it has been applied. I found this process very beneficial as it is not often, we as individuals take the time to appreciate where and how we have developed the knowledge, skills and values we have.
Alongside the MA, Rhianydd also completed an Insights Evaluator assessment, which provided deeper self-awareness of her strengths and areas for development. This newfound understanding has enhanced her teamwork, leadership, and management style. The research and reflection required for the course have also provided clarity on the differences between management and leadership, equipping her with the necessary skills to excel in her role.
The course has been instrumental in enhancing my self-awareness and leadership capabilities. The reflection process allowed me to recognise the key influences in my career and appreciate how they have contributed to my growth. I now feel more confident and self-assured in my abilities as a manager, Rhianydd shared.
The MA in Professional Practice has significantly contributed to Rhianydds development of essential skills such as leadership, reflective practice, and academic writing at a postgraduate level. The transition from undergraduate to Level 7 work posed challenges, but the structured support and guidance from the Professional Practice Framework (PPF) teaching team made the process manageable. The programme has also reinforced the importance of considering different management and leadership styles in professional settings.
Encouraging others to take advantage of experiential learning opportunities, Rhianydd stated:
Claiming for experiential learning is an incredible way to reflect on and appreciate the experiences, people, and opportunities that have shaped your career. Without this dedicated time for reflection, I may not have fully recognised the impact of my journey so far.
The PPF lecturers at 窪蹋勛圖厙 played a crucial role in the success of Rhianydds studies, offering consistent support and encouragement throughout the programme. Monthly group tutorials provided valuable opportunities to connect with tutors and peers, developing a collaborative learning environment. She adds:
These monthly meetings kept me on track as I would see how my peers were progressing and this would either offer me reassurance I was in line with my peers or was a reality check which motivated me to make progress on my work.
Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer and lead on the RAL module, said:
The RAL module is designed to empower professionals like Rhianydd to critically reflect on their experiential learning and recognise the value of their accumulated knowledge and skills. Rhianydds journey exemplifies how this reflective process can enhance professional confidence and growth, ultimately supporting career progression and meaningful contributions to the sector.
Lowri Harris, Programme Manager for the Professional Practice Framework:
The MA in Professional Practice is a transformative programme that enables professionals to develop their leadership capabilities and refine their reflective practice. Rhianydds experience demonstrates the programmes ability to support career advancement by providing flexible, practice-based learning opportunities that align with individual professional goals and aspirations.
For more information about 窪蹋勛圖厙’s Professional Practice Framework, visit: Professional Practice Framework | 窪蹋勛圖厙
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476