What our students say
Continuing your professional development
Meet Anne Patmore, a postgraduate social work student studying an MA in Professional Education and Training in Human Services.
“When I began the MA I'd just taken my first management post and felt I needed more training to undertake the job. I looked at many courses, but the masters at Kingston seemed ideal.
“The first year modules covered areas such as decision-making and the legal framework, including employment legislation, health and safety, managing performance and discrimination legislation – all essential knowledge for a manager. The second year was flexible, with the opportunity to choose from a range of modules, which allowed me to take the modules at a pace I could manage. Each module is hard work, with some evenings and Saturdays at university. If it hadn’t been so exhilarating and exciting I couldn’t have coped on a wet Tuesday night after work.
“Teaching methods on the course are varied - some are very interactive and discussion-based, others are more formal. I've met a broad mix of people with a wide range of experiences, which means that discussions are stimulating and refreshing. I've learnt as much from my fellow students as I have from the formal study. The tutors are fantastic – always approachable and informed about current debates. I’m not the most academic person in the world but they've had such faith in me, which has brought out the best in me and got me through. The learning resources are excellent too, with easy access to relevant materials.
“Initially my agency wasn't keen on me undertaking so much extra study, even though it was in my own time, but the benefits have been obvious. I've shared my learning, new ideas and information with fellow managers and team members, which is very rewarding. I've also taken on new roles and widened my horizons.
“I now feel far more confident than before and believe I've gained choices for the future.”
