An Early Years & Childhood Studies degree student from Solihull College & University Centre is celebrating after overcoming a number of obstacles to secure a first-class honours result.
Liam Carr, 32 from Birmingham, was one of three students from the Early Childhood Studies Top Up Degree who received a first this summer. His hard work has been rewarded, as following this success, he was offered a full time teaching role which started this September.
Liam initially attended the College six years ago but after struggling with his mental health he withdrew from his course. After a diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome and a period of depression, Liam fought his way back to health and was determined to return to the College to progress in his education alongside his role as a teaching assistant.
He comments: “Everyone was so understanding of my condition. Solihull is a wonderful institution to assist people like myself who have experienced difficulties. I felt more comfortable returning to Solihull as the smaller teaching groups meant everything felt more one-on-one. I knew the lecturers and it was familiar to me.”
Alongside his teaching assistant role, Liam decided to study on the Early Childhood Studies Degree Top-up degree which he attended at the College one day per week for one year.
Now, after being awarded his first-class honours result, Liam works full time as a teacher of reception pupils at Selly Oak school. “I was delighted with my first,” he admits, “I was hoping for a 2.1 so I was thrilled. For me I would definitely recommend this course as it gives you the chance to work in schools and experience a number of different roles. I like to help young children keep that love of education.”
Helen Darby, Care and Education Lecturer and Course Coordinator at the College adds: “I am so proud of what Liam has achieved. He has overcome adversity and utilised the support available to all students for him to achieve a first. He is a perfect example of how this course supports learners to achieve their potential.”
Liam plans to study on a PGCE course next to become a fully qualified teacher.
