Michelle Robinson

Operations Director providing early education for children

I worked full time and attended Leeds Trinity one afternoon a week. The University offered support face-to-face and also virtually which allowed me time to manage my own workload between other life commitments.

Why I chose to study at Leeds Trinity University

I decided on Leeds Trinity as a friend of mine was also completing a teaching degree, she discussed how good she felt the University was so I completed my Foundation degree before going to Australia for three months, I then returned to complete the Professional Practice 'Top-Up' a few years later.  

Studying whilst working

For both courses I was employed full-time as an Operations Director for a not-for-profit community interest company, providing early education for children from 3 months -5 years.

How my experiences have supported my development

Doing the Foundation degree allowed me to connect all the theory with practical and share those experiences. Moving on to the Professional Practice taught me how to critically analyse (something I now do a lot of). 

Juggling my personal, professional and study commitments 

I worked full time and attended Leeds Trinity one afternoon a week. The University offered support face-to-face and also virtually which allowed me time to manage my own workload between other life commitments. These included opening a new nursery, having a 9-month-old baby and getting married. 

Feeling well supported

I always felt fully supported, sometimes reading assignment questions can seem overwhelming but staff were always on hand to go through things and review work throughout the modules. 

My career after graduating

I continue to work as an Operations Director and since completing the Professional Practice course I opened a Forest School for 5–11-year-olds and opened a full day nursery for children aged 3 months-5 years (based on various approaches I explored on the Professional Practice). I have also taken over another local day nursery and opened an after-school hub.  I enjoy challenging my learning and taking on new adventures.

A beneficial course format

Completing a course one day a week allows you to connect all the theory and practice and it also allows you to develop further in your professional role.

My advice to others

Work-based Learning courses at Leeds Trinity are fantastic and the staff are very knowledgeable. They recognise students will also be working and support your workload in any way possible.  I am a strong believer in professional development and Leeds Trinity matches the way in which I wanted to support staff in developing within their chosen roles.

Our Foundation and Professional Practice degrees

If you already work with children, young people and families and are looking to gain a higher education qualification, our work-based learning degrees offer an alternative route to studying for a degree. Visit Foundation and Professional Practice degrees for more information.