Tracey Bullock starts her OU studies in October 2012 and is financing them through a student loan. Currently working as a teaching assistant and single mum of two children, Tracey is working towards a Foundation Degree in Primary Teaching and Learning in order to become a teacher…
I officially start on 6th October and will be doing two modules, both level 1, each worth 60 credits. These will go towards my Foundation Degree in Primary Teaching and Learning. As I have my materials, I have made a start on reading and also on some of the activities. I’m really looking forward to the websites opening later this month so I can get properly stuck in!
Does the qualification fit with your current work and what do you hope to do with it afterwards?
As a teaching assistant, this qualification is perfect – it’s aimed at Teaching Assistants so will benefit myself, the school and the children I support. I may stop studying once I have completed this qualification but as I am enjoying studying I might transfer the credits over and do an extra year to get a full BA (Hons) degree. It is also possible that I will end up on a teacher training programme of some description in about five years which will be possible because of this course.
What made you choose the Open University?
They not only offered a course that was perfect for my current requirements but it also gives me lots of options later on. Most importantly, I can fit study around my lifestyle and with work, volunteering and two children to look after, that is very important.
How are you financing your study and how did you find the process of applying? Do you have any tips for other OU students?
I am financing my study through a student loan. The process of applying was really easy and I got a reply within a few weeks which confirmed I am eligible and how/when they will pay the OU. As I am funding my study through a student loan, the changes to fees has had no influence on me personally. This is the first time part-time study has been funded through the student loan, so I am very pleased with this change If a course gets you the qualification you want and you enjoy doing it, then I think it’s worth the money. If it leads to a new job or promotion of some kind, then it’s definitely worth the money! I would advise all students to look at the different options for funding and choose the one which best suits them.
How will you find time to manage your studies around work and raising children and are you looking forward to it?
It’s all about planning! I have time set aside for study which is when the children are at school or at their dad’s. They will go to their dad more of a weekend if I find I need time to get finished before my TMAs are due. Because of their ages (10 and 12 with birthdays just around the corner!) I can’t study when they are in bed as it would be too late for me. Also, the school I work at is very supportive and I will be able to get some extra time out of lessons on occasions if I need to get things finished. To say I am looking forward to it is an understatement – I am very excited and can’t wait to get started properly!
Do you think education is important for people who didn’t get to study at university first time round, and for those who want to change career?
Yes I do. For me, I wasn’t interested in study after school so it’s great that I can do it now. Now I am motivated and will not only do it but I’ll enjoy it too. I have found that the study I have done in the past two years (prior to OU) has led to my current job and this course will provide professional development with the chance of progression and I think that’s important. As I myself have had a major career change, I think it’s really important that people are aware that you can study, for any reason, at any age.
Do you have any advice for anyone thinking of taking up study with the OU? Would you recommend it?
I would definitely recommend study with the OU if you are organised and motivated. The ability to plan your study and work at your own pace is great if you can manage your time well. Anyone thinking of study with the OU should really think about what they want to study, why and what they want to achieve at the end of it. This will ensure they study appropriate modules and gain what they set out to gain. I spent months talking to the OU and other universities to ensure I was studying the right modules and that they would lead to the right qualification for me.
Useful links
- Study with the OU
- OU ways to pay
- OU Student Budget Account
- Part-time students' guide from Student Finance England
