Education Studies – SEN, Disabilities and Inclusion, 2020
“The passion shown by the lecturers at the open day I attended, impressed me. My interest sparked, as I discovered that there were lots of pathways and opportunities open to me after graduation.”
Adam is studying Education Studies – SEN, Disabilities and Inclusion (SENDI) and is working to become an Early Years teacher with a SENDI specialism.
I studied Health and Social Care BTEC Level 3 at New City College, Redbridge. I gained experience within education. Spending time supporting students; from the Early Years Foundation Stage to year 11. I have experience in alternative provisions, and specialist schools. I also took on a role as a Cover Supervisor in secondary education.
I chose to study the Education Studies – Special Education Needs, Disability and Inclusion (SENDI) degree, as I’m passionate about supporting individuals with special needs. I think it’s important that they reach their potential and that barriers to education can be removed. Everyone should have access to education regardless of age, gender, sexuality or disability.
The passion shown by the lecturers at the open day I attended, impressed me. My interest sparked, as I discovered that there were lots of pathways and opportunities open to me after graduation. I'm working to become an Early Years teacher with a SEN specialism.
The course provides me with the opportunity to explore different concepts of education. This includes the barriers which people face. I’m evaluating frameworks to provide an inclusive education system. After the compulsory modules, I have been able to choose areas to study that interest me.
Brookes is a renowned university for education and the course has a good choice of modules available. The course helps you to develop soft skills (communication, teamwork), and academic skills (writing, referencing). I work as an E-Mentor – supporting prospective university students. I’m also a representative for Education Studies. Being an Education Rep demonstrates to employers that l can listen to the views of others and have good communication skills. I also volunteer as part of a Sensory Garden project at the Harcourt Hill Campus.
The support provided by staff is excellent; there is always someone to help. I first met Jon Reid at an open day and he has an infectious passion for the course. Nick Swarbrick’s enthusiasm for the subjects shines through. Nick motivates and inspires students and always supports them in any way possible.
The other students are brilliant! The small campus creates a community vibe and students have similar interests. A number of students share my passion for education and this enables me to take part in educational debates. On campus there is support for students via E-Mentoring. The library is well resourced and continually updates materials. There is an “Upgrade” service; this helps you with your study skills, planning essays, referencing and looking at feedback on assignments – very useful!
Oxford has a large student population which helps to inspire me. There is something for everyone; great shops and markets, botanical gardens for chilling out, not to mention the awesome nightlife!