Sabina’s motivation to work harder and achieve success meant that she could follow her dreams to work in the Childcare industry. She shares her story with us here…
Taking charge and seeking opportunities
When I first came to the UK, I was adamant that I did not want to be a stay at home mum. It had always been my dream and goal to find work in Childcare.
Once I settled down, I looked around for opportunities that could help me achieve my dream.
I came to learn that the Dundee International Women’s Centre was offering Childcare courses and they had an on-site crèche too.
This was such a relief, as I had never left my children with anyone before and this meant that they were near me safe and sound while I worked on the course.
The Centre gave me the support I needed and directed me towards the right course choices I needed to start my Childcare journey
The start of my childcare journey
Initially, I completed the ‘Fair Play Training’ which covered a few introductory Childcare modules.
Then in 2008, I started an NC course in Childcare. I would attend classes once a week and study all week at home. I found the assignments for this course quite difficult as English is not my first language, but I worked hard and asked for help from my classmates and teacher.
I also attended English classes at the Centre to help improve my written and spoken English.
During this period the on-site crèche was looking for supply staff so I applied and got the job. I was very happy as my dream was starting to come true and this motivated me to work even harder.
Once I completed my NC I went on to work towards an SVQ3 in Childcare Learning and Development. This was very important to me as it meant I would be a qualified Childcare practitioner and I would be able to continue to work in Childcare.
I continued to work as supply staff in the crèche for a few years and then a Childcare Supervisor post became available. I gathered the courage to apply and got the position!
This spurred me on to then complete an SVQ4 in Childcare.
Acknowledgments to those that supported me on my journey
My family is so proud of me and it feels good to know that despite my initial language barrier I was able to achieve all this.
I thank the Dundee International Women’s Centre for helping my dream come true.
I feel like I am a different person and I have the confidence to try anything!
My mentors were the DIWC staff team, Irene, Susan and Amina who gave me ongoing encouragement and support. I now help other women who come to the Centre to achieve their goals.
My message to everyone is to challenge yourselves, work hard and seek help to achieve your dreams and goals.
By Sabina Meah, Childcare Supervisor