Ann McCourt
Ann McCourt made a career change from hairdressing to working as a special needs assistant 17 years ago. Throughout the years, she held on to a strong desire to study at degree level, patiently waiting for the right course to appear.
That opportunity finally came when she discovered Portobello Institute’s BA (Ord) in Inclusive Education Practice. With this course, Ann was able to pursue her lifelong dream of earning a degree in a field she is truly passionate about.
“Over the past few years, I have searched for a course that I would be interested in and that would be relevant in assisting students with special education needs.
“This was the first course I saw that ticked all the boxes for me. I was nervous and excited in equal measure, but I have to say the excitement took centre stage for me early on.
“I found the experience I have gained in my role as an SNA was key to my confidence in completing assignments, and this course allowed me to understand the theory behind practice. I have really enjoyed the challenge of returning to education.
“It has been a lifelong goal for me to study to a degree level, and now I am working in a job that I am passionate about. The role of an SNA is an evolving role in Ireland, and I fully believe education within this role will be the key to change,” she said.
During her school years, Ann would have to copy her classmates’ notes as she had limited sight and couldn’t see the board.
Life-changing cataract surgery in her 30’s led her to be able to pursue a career change to working with children with additional needs and she discovered her passion.
“I loved school and learning but struggled with participation as at that time there was no adaptations or accommodations.
“I had to rely on my classmates to allow me write notes from their notes as I could never see the board.
“When I left school, I pursued a career in hairdressing which I absolutely loved. I knew this work was up close and I could manage it very well, but further study was always on my mind.
“I was always searching for more, and then I discovered that I could study an honours degree in Inclusive Education Practice with Portobello Institute online through blended learning.
“Finally, I could reach a lifetime goal and in a subject I’m passionate about. It was so accessible that it allowed me to meet all other commitments while studying too,” she said.
Finding Confidence in Academic Learning
Ann’s love of learning and school came back to her throughout her studies at Portobello as she thrived on the blended learning delivery programme, engaging with tutors and making new friends.
“I have loved every minute of my time as a student at Portobello. I have gained so much insight from fellow students about their work settings, experiences, and job roles. I have made friends from this course; these friendships will last into the future.
“I loved building my skills such as digital skills and academic skills. I loved the challenge of learning new things. I know there were plenty of deadlines, but I very quickly figured out that very short periods of engagement with the coursework really added up.
“I knew studying to degree level would require commitment which I was willing to give and I found I had time for my usual hobbies and trips.
“I think you find a system that suits you and you stick to it. I used to do one hour every day before work and then at the weekends I would get up early one of the weekend mornings to do a few hours.
“The tutors are first-class, they are amazing. They are hardworking and dedicated to their jobs. My first module with Portobello taught me how to begin writing academically, referencing and taught me how to research and develop critical thinking skills.
“I feel this module is very skilfully put together. As I look back now at some of the essays I have written, I can’t believe I have learned so much.
“All the tutors very skilfully broke down module learning and gave very clear guidance on assessment requirements.
“It felt a little daunting in the very beginning, but there was no need to worry; the guidance was brilliant.
“I have learned fantastic digital skills which are very relevant in an SNA role today. Further education also brings confidence, and this has certainly been the case for me.
“I know now I carry out my role as an SNA with very valuable insight from this course to support our students to the best of my ability.
“I did doubt my ability before I began this degree. I am so glad I didn’t let this prevent me from the decision to take on this degree,” she said.
The Benefits of Blended Learning and Choosing Portobello Institute
Ann dedicated a lot of time and research to finding the course that was right for her, the delivery mode, the support and the course material.
“I compared providers online and was very impressed with the recognition of prior learning with Portobello, for me this meant that I could complete my level 7 degree in two years with three modules the first year this really appealed to me as I knew I would need time to build my skills.
“Also after a phone call arranged with Portobello, I realised this course was exactly what I was looking for and it really has been.
“On our induction day, I had the opportunity to meet other students. We have our own network of friends and have learned so much from each other.
“Having this course more or less fully online has meant so much, literally, it’s a study bag that can be brought out anywhere.
“I’ve studied at airports, on trains, in the car, and even in hospitals. I really felt all my other life commitments were still taken care of and I loved the accessibility of this course and the relevance it has to my job.
“One module I studied this year was self-directed, so during holiday time from school I completed chunks of it.
“All the lectures are live and are recorded so very easy to play back when you couldn’t attend. During the course we were given plenty opportunities to interact with fellow students through breakout rooms during lectures and discussion boards on each module page.
“This provided a valuable insight to other settings and experiences and therefore allowed us to share our knowledge.
“Portobello provides quality courses with excellent tuition. They recognise prior learning, and I know this was one of the deciding factors for me to pick Portobello.
“Looking back I am amazed at the skillset I have developed with this course.
“The online accessibility of this course is a deciding factor as mature students will always put life commitments ahead of their own goals and wishes, I can honestly say I did not have to worry about this as I literally studied everywhere.
“The lectures were very professional and allowed plenty of time for discussion. The tutors were very good at responding to all queries,” she said.
Inclusive Education Practice as a Next Step for SNAs
Ann wanted a degree that would deepen her knowledge, advance her skills and progress her opportunities – something to match and drive forward her 17 years of experience.
She now applies what she has learned in her daily life, and will progress on to her final year to complete her BA (Hons) Inclusive Education Practice Top-Up degree bringing her qualification up to a level 8.
“This course was ideal for me as my experience in my role as an SNA was very valuable in the completion of all assignments.
“New learning from all modules has taught me so much within my role. The knowledge and theory I have learnt on this course I apply in my daily role supporting the students in my school.
“I have had in-depth discussions with colleagues around the subject of bullying in schools and with the realisation we all have a part to play in eliminating bullying in schools. Discussing these very important questions is key to change for the future.
“During this course I was given the opportunity to speak with the Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) during a school review as our school was looking for more SNA support.
“Following this I made a podcast which was sent from our school to local TD’s and Ministers highlighting our need for extra SNA support.
“This year I also helped SNAs in our school through the interview process and one SNA got a permanent job.
“This year I intend to complete the level 8 honours degree in Inclusive Education Practice. Then I hope to pursue a career as a part-time tutor.
“I would love to tutor childcare modules and modules related to special educational needs. From working in a special school I have very relevant experience relating theory to practice.
“It’s never too late to return to education, if it is your goal, don’t hesitate; you will be in very good hands if you choose Portobello to further your education.
“I’m so delighted I made the decision to complete this degree; it will be one decision I will never regret and I am very proud of myself. Family and friends have supported me through my study helping me with digital skills, proofreading my essays and by offering encouragement and support.
“Studying a degree in an area that you are interested in and have experience in will always give you options. I started this degree solely for my own benefit, to gain knowledge with an attitude of ‘let’s see where the road takes me’. Now I can see options from it,” she said.
If you are interested in studying Inclusive Education at Portobello Institute, visit our faculty here.
