TGt Meets...Dawn Evans, Early Years Foundation Degree Lecturer at New College

Meet our latest TGt Meets...Dawn Evans, the early years foundation degree lecturer at New College. We found out exactly why Dawn became a teacher and why she chose to work at New college.

Describe yourself in 3 words…

Approachable, friendly and positive!

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I was inspired by my own teachers in my childhood to join the profession. I get an enormous sense of pride when I see my students fulfil their potential.

What do you love most about being a teacher at New College?

New College is a friendly place where I have been programme leading the foundation degree in early years for 17 years! I work with hard working and dedicated colleagues and support outstandingly committed higher education students. I love being part of my students’ educational journey and seeing them develop in confidence and knowledge. Our students are remarkable often balancing academic study with their own family life and jobs.

What are the key modules that are studied?

The first year aims to enhance student’s knowledge of child development, holistic health and reflective practice.  Moving onwards into the second year, students explore wider aspects of early years such as family diversity, safeguarding and research in the workplace.

What career progression options are available for those who take this course? 

When students successfully graduate with their foundation degree, they have the option to apply for a third year in Early Childhood Studies and to remain on site at New College for this top up. From there, they have the opportunity to apply to enter initial teacher training or an MA in Childhood Studies or another suitable route. 

What module do you find most interesting?

All modules are designed to enhance early year’s practitioner’s skills and knowledge but if I had to choose one , it would be ‘contested childhoods’. This module enables students to explore childhood from different perspectives and apply this into their own workplace.

Do individuals need prior experience in working in an early years setting before taking this course?

Ideally, yes we prefer our students to have experience of working in an under eights setting such as a primary school, pre school, nursery or childminding.

Why should individuals choose to study this course at New College?

We have a dedicated Higher Education Centre with excellent resources such as the library and study spaces.  As the course is run in partnership with Bath Spa University, they have access to Newton Park campus for the library and other services. Our subject teaching team are welcoming and supportive. The course is a wonderful opportunity to progress in an early years academic qualification and it’s a great local, affordable alternative to University.

Find out more about New College HERE!