UWTSD Early Years Graduate Sets Sights on a Career in Social Work

Bethan Ball, a recent graduate from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), is celebrating the completion of her BA (Hons) in Early Years Education and Care: with Practitioner Status. 

Bethan, who grew up in a large family surrounded by younger children, always knew she had a passion for childcare. Inspired by family members with careers in the sector, she naturally gravitated towards working with children, volunteering at school fêtes and after-school clubs from a young age.

After completing her Level 3 childcare qualification at college, Bethan was initially unsure about progressing to university, until she attended an open day at UWTSD.

“By attending a UWTSD open day and meeting my lecturers I knew for definite that I wanted to continue my studies further into the early years of childhood. The  course and the way it was presented on open days by the lecturers made me feel a sense of belonging there, and each lecturer wanted to engage with me and find out my story, making me feel seen, and developing relationships with lecturers immediately.”

 The unique structure of the Early Years course at UWTSD was another key factor in her decision. The combination of two days of university-based learning and three days on placement allowed Bethan to continue her role as a playworker, using her hours towards her placement requirement. The course’s practical approach, and the absence of a traditional dissertation was particularly appealing. She explained:

“The learning style really suited me. Each module had an assignment rather than a dissertation, which felt more manageable and less daunting,” 

Bethan says the course exceeded her expectations, broadening her understanding of child development, leadership, and safeguarding. A particular highlight was participating in a child protection conference role play, which ignited a new passion for social work and child protection. 

“That module inspired me to want to pursue a master’s in social work. It made me realise how much I care about child protection and family support.”

During her placement, Bethan was able to apply classroom knowledge directly to her work, supported by regular visits and feedback from UWTSD lecturers. Additional training opportunities, such as first aid and safeguarding courses, helped strengthen her skills and prepared her for future career prospects.

Reflecting on her university experience, Bethan praised the unwavering support of her lecturers.

 “There were very few challenges,  and if any arose, the lecturers resolved them quickly. They made it clear that support was available anytime, even on weekends, which was a huge comfort.”

UWTSD Early Years Lecturer Glenda Tinney said:

“We are delighted to see Bethan and her group celebrating their hard work. Already, Bethan and her peers have made a positive contribution to the early years, play and education sector through their extensive placement hours. These experiences mean they are already making a significant difference to children and families lives across the region.

“Course work, such as the child protection conference, noted by Bethan as a memorable assignment,  also give students authentic and practical learning experiences, meaning that as soon as they graduate, they can contribute and lead  across a range of different careers.  For example, the child-protection conference meant collaborating, working as a team and researching key policy and practice in response to a child-protection scenario. The employability skills used in such assignments are those needed to support children and families and are designed to be authentic in terms of providing relevant employability skills. I am delighted to hear that Bethan is now accessing postgraduate study in Social Work, and using her passion and knowledge to improve children’s wellbeing and safeguarding. The profession needs students like Bethan with a passion, commitment and a detailed knowledge of children’s development, rights, play and wellbeing. Congratulations Bethan.”

Now more confident and ambitious, Bethan is planning to continue her studies with a master’s in social work, with the long-term goal of becoming a children’s social worker.

“I would 100% recommend this course to anyone considering a career in the early years. It’s not just about gaining a qualification, it’s about growing as a person, building relationships, and discovering new passions. UWTSD has been everything I hoped for and more.”

Further Information

Lowri Thomas

Principal Communications and PR Officer     
Corporate Communications and PR     
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk     
Phone: 07449 998476