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Rebecca Atherton

Early Years Quality Assurance Officer – Knowsley Council

Early Years Education and Leadership

rebecca atherton

I had never gone to university before and had several years away from education, but my tutors at Edge Hill were very supportive from the start.

When I discovered Edge Hill’s foundation degree, I’d been working in a nursery setting for several years. I’d worked my way up to leading the preschool room and felt ready to expand my knowledge and expertise. The main thing I was looking for was a course that I could complete alongside my job, and Edge Hill offered exactly that.

At this stage in my career, leadership was something I was aspiring to become, so this course was ideal for me. The hours fit well around my work and family lifestyle, and the small class size really helped me to get to know other early years professionals and quickly build a network of support.

I had never gone to university before and had several years away from education, but my tutors at Edge Hill were very supportive from the start. Each aspect of the course was discussed in detail in a relaxed environment, and my nerves were quickly put at ease by the relaxed and friendly vibe on campus.

For me, the course was a really smooth transition into the world of academia. I was taught through a mix of seminar discussions, PowerPoints, and other activities – and I enjoyed my foundation degree so much that I continued at Edge Hill to complete my BA (Hons) in Early Years Practice. The tutors who supported me were very inspirational and motivational, and I ended up achieving a first-class degree.

Since graduating from Edge Hill, I’ve also achieved a Master’s degree. Having all of this knowledge under my belt set me up perfectly to progress from a team leader to a graduate lead within my nursery. Since then, I’ve successfully stepped into the role of Early Years Quality Assurance Officer for my local authority, supporting early years settings, schools, and childminders.

Deciding to complete a foundation degree at Edge Hill has certainly opened some amazing doors to wider job opportunities. The course really allowed me to reflect and build my knowledge, skills and abilities. I’ve made some amazing friendships and memories with Edge Hill, and I’ve become a lifelong learner too.