Juggling studying and being a mum
Having completed two courses at Open Study College, Anneka enjoys the fact that her studies fit perfectly around her family life, allowing her to learn while her children are at school and nursery.
Anneka said: “So far, I have studied two courses and completed both Level 3 Counselling and Level 4 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy with Open Study College. Now I have my certificates, I can join the ACCPH (Accredited Counsellors, Coaches, Psychotherapists and Hypnotherapists) website and follow my dreams of becoming a counsellor.”
When asked about why she chose to follow the distance learning route when returning to education, Anneka said: “Distance learning was the only option for me as a mother with two children. My passion and first priority will always be my family. I absolutely love spending my time with them, so distance learning meant that I could study during periods when my family are busy too, for example studying while the kids are at school and nursery suited me perfectly.
“Due to the nature of distance learning, I could study in my own time, so for example, if I needed to prepare dinner I would stop and just get back to learning once my homelife tasks were complete.
Returning to education
“Initially I thought it would be difficult to get back into education, as alongside looking after my kids and juggling housework I didn’t think I’d have the time. It was all so new to me, but Open Study College supported me right from the start and both of my tutors were brilliant whenever I emailed them with any queries. They always got back to me promptly and this made me feel like I was not alone and if I needed help, they were always there.”
Anneka encourages anyone thinking about taking this route to ‘go for it’: “If you’re wondering whether to study with Open Study College then definitely go for it, as you can study at your own pace. From enquiring about courses to signing up, my experience with OSC has been amazing. I never thought I’d be able to get back into education after a 15-year absence, but OSC gave me the confidence within myself to start learning again and if I have the chance, I would definitely study another course in the future.”