EYPS Student profiles

Jennifer Shipton

Manager of Full Daycare setting

Validation Pathway

I decided to enrol on the Early Years Professional Status programme after completing my degree in early Childhood Studies.It was a natural next step for me and I had just started as a deputy manager, so I thought it would really help me in that role.The University came back to me very promptly to confirm that I was a suitable candidate, and they offered me a place on the course straight after my interview.The course has helped me greatly with my job role and knowledge of leading a team.It has given me more confidence in my knowledge and ability and in fact helped me to get promotion to Manager.I would definitely recommend EYPS, particularly at the University of Reading, as they were really helpful from start to finish and we made a close knit network within our pathway, which helped everyone immensely.

Desreen Nightingale

Foundation Stage Leader in an Independent setting.

Short Pathway

I chose to undertake EYPS in order to improve and enhance my knowledge of Early Years Education and to use that knowledge to improve the standard of care in my setting.I chose Reading because it is close to my home and job and the course was well organised and supported.Having completed the course, I feel my knowledge had certainly improved in specific areas such as Health and Safety and care of Under 2s.I would definitely recommend Reading to others because the course is well organised with an excellent support system in the form of tutors, mentors and local support groups.Training workshops given by the University were also excellent.EYPS is a very good way of "fine tuning" leadership skills, improving knowledge and making new friends.

Pauline Cooper

Pre-school Supervisor in a Voluntary setting

Long Pathway

I chose to undertake EYPS to further my career and for job satisfaction.I am still on the programme and I already feel that my knowledge and skills have improved greatly, especially with birth to three year olds, interviewing skills and the Early Years Foundation Stage.It has been a very positive experience for me, confirming what I already know and guiding me towards those areas where I needed extra knowledge or skills.

Jenny Soles

Proprietor/Manager of a Private Pre-school

Short Pathway

I first heard about EYPS shortly after completing a relevant degree in July 2006.It seemed the next logical step and also a way of validating the work I was already doing.Since I run my own pre school, it would give me a good recognised Status.The discipline of reflection and change, which I learnt and refined through my degree, has continued and been extended and is now part of my normal routine.I normally work with children from 24 months and this programme has led me to relook at the development and needs of children from birth upwards.I gained professional experience with this lower age group and more understanding of their needs and the problems associated with care of the very young.I found the support network developed at Reading very good and everyone was very encouraging.It was great to meet and share with practitioners from nearby areas and in other types of setting.EYPS has acknowledged and validated the work I do every day in a tangible way and I would definitely recommend it to others.