UWTSD’s widening access work in Port Talbot inspires mother to attend university

A Port Talbot mother has been inspired to attend university after participating in a widening access programme within her own community.

Liz Watkins was accepted into the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Inclusive Education Foundation Degree programme after completing a series of stepping-stone courses offered by the university, which enhanced her confidence and skills, preparing her for higher education.

UWTSD’s Widening Access department engages with individuals throughout south west Wales, from primary school children to adults. Their work aims to raise aspirations and remove barriers that prevent people from accessing higher education and further learning opportunities.

Donna Williams, a Widening Access officer at UWTSD, commented, “I began working in the Port Talbot community in March 2023, delivering a four-week well-being course called Living Life to the Full, based on cognitive behavioural therapy principles.

This was when I first met Liz. She was initially quiet and reserved, but she participated well, and it was fantastic to see her confidence grow each week as she embraced what she learned. Since completing this initial course, Liz has undertaken three more subject-based courses within our adult learning programme.

The four-week Introduction to Early Years course solidified her desire to further her education in this field. In July 2023, Liz and other participants from South West Wales attended a Celebration Graduation event in Swansea, where we recognised their achievements with certificates. Experiencing a graduation ceremony inspired Liz to continue her studies and pursue her dream of attending university.

I am incredibly proud of Liz’s progress over the last 16 months; her confidence has flourished, and the courses have enabled her to identify her strengths and make informed decisions about her future. I look forward to seeing her on our Swansea Waterfront Campus in September.”

Liz Watkins shared her experience, “I really enjoyed the Living Life to the Full course, which made me reflect on my skills and where I see myself in the future.

All the UWTSD stepping-stone courses were enjoyable and encouraged me to try new things. The Early Years course confirmed my desire to pursue a career working with children, leading me to complete my Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Children’s Care, Play, Learning, and Development (CCPLD). I am particularly interested in working with children with additional learning needs.

The courses have boosted my confidence, and Donna has made me feel welcome and encouraged me to seize every opportunity. I never imagined a year ago that I’d be accepted to study at university. My children and extended family are very proud of my achievements. I want to show my children that you can achieve anything if you believe in yourself.”

Sarah Walters, UWTSD’s Early Years Community workshop deliverer and former student, remarked, “One of the most rewarding aspects of delivering workshops in the community is seeing the positive impact on learners’ confidence. Many individuals may not have considered university as an option, but through community-led learning, UWTSD inspires various pathways into higher education. I am very proud of Liz, who attended many of our courses and then achieved her Level 3 in CCPLD, leading her to apply for the Foundation Degree at UWTSD.”

The work-based Foundation Degree (FdA) in Inclusive Education and the BA Top-Up Inclusive Education programmes offer opportunities for non-traditional students to develop skills in their working environments, such as schools. These programmes cater to Teaching Assistants and Learning Support Assistants who might not be able to attend daytime lectures due to work or family commitments. Lectures are delivered in the evenings at the Swansea Campus and in the Pembroke community, with options for remote participation.

Both the FdA and BA Inclusive Education programmes follow a blended learning structure, with 50% face-to-face classroom instruction and 50% online learning. Classroom sessions are also available remotely via Teams, and lectures are recorded for students who cannot attend live sessions. These programmes support those returning to education or unsure of their ability to study at a higher level. Pastoral support is a crucial element, providing encouragement and guidance to our cohorts of non-traditional students.

Cindy Hunt, Programme Manager and Lecturer for Inclusive Education, said, “It was great to meet Liz before she applied to study at UWTSD and to see her dedication to professional development. I look forward to seeing her progress in the Foundation Degree in Inclusive Education programme starting in September. Liz will develop the knowledge, understanding, and reflective skills needed to work with a wide range of learners and gain numerous essential skills for the educational system. Welcome aboard, Liz!”