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Ashley Macdonald, a recent graduate of the ���ϳԹ��� (���ϳԹ���) with a BA in Early Years Education and Care, is celebrating his remarkable achievement and sharing his inspiring journey into education.

Ashley chose to study at ���ϳԹ��� after hearing glowing recommendations from family and friends who spoke highly of the university. Reflecting on his experience, he said:

“The group work was my favourite part of the course. It allowed me to form lifelong friendships, and we supported each other through both the good and challenging times.”

Ashley’s decision to pursue this field was deeply personal. His son, who has Additional Learning Needs (ALN), motivated him to enter the world of early years education. 

“Seeing my son’s struggles first-hand inspired me to make a difference in education for other children facing similar challenges,”

Throughout his studies, Ashley found that the course managed to increase his confidence, as well as develop him as an individual.

“This course has developed me in ways I never thought possible. I gained extensive knowledge about early years education, from understanding various educational theorists to exploring different teaching and learning methods. I’m eager to apply these insights in my future career.”

Ashley also credited his success to the supportive lecturers at ���ϳԹ���. 

“The lecturers were fantastic—knowledgeable, approachable, and incredibly understanding. Many of us were balancing work and parenting, and they always found ways to help manage the workload.”

His dedication to education continues as she embarks on the next ���ϳԹ��� of her academic journey. Ashley is currently pursuing a PGCE Primary at ���ϳԹ���, fulfilling his dream of becoming a primary school teacher. 

���ϳԹ��� Early Years Lecturer and Admissions Tutor, Glenda Tinney said: 

“Ashley has been a integral part of the flexible learning group. His contribution to class discussion was so valuable and his insights linked to Additional Learning Needs were invaluable for students and staff when understanding the opportunities and challenges when supporting young children. Throughout Ashley’s own commitment to improving the experiences and education  of  young children shone through. I am delighted he is now embarking on a PGCE . The education sector need engaged and enthusiastic students like Ashley with a commitment to children’s rights and wellbeing.

“The flexible learning degree contributes experienced practitioners every year to the teaching profession and we are delighted to see the difference they make in school communities.

“Well done Ashley, and congratulations to all our students.”

For those considering the BA Early Years Education and Care course, Ashley has heartfelt advice: 

“Go for it. The course is designed to fit around work and family life. It’s challenging, but the support from friends and lecturers makes it worthwhile. Fourteen years ago, I dropped out of university. Now, I’m proud to call myself a graduate!”

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476