DCG Success Stories

Derby College Early Years higher education student Melissa Smedley would like to train as a play therapist once she’s graduated.

Melissa, who is completing her foundation degree in Children and Young People’s Services, has been studying at the college since she was 16.

A natural with young children, she cared for her little brother who has special needs from the age of 13 and has always wanted to go into childcare.

And, getting an A grade in Child Development while still in year 10 at school, convinced Melissa she was making the right choice.

She said: “I’m the sort of person who needs to know what I’m aiming for. I couldn’t do years of study just for the sake of it.

“I was quite a nervous, anxious person but going to college has done so much for my confidence. My lecturer Mandy at Ilkeston was the one who started me off by encouraging me, and the lecturers I have now have also given me some support.

I was feeling a bit nervous about moving from Ilkeston to a different campus when I started my foundation degree but my lecturer Amber met me at The Roundhouse and helped me find my way around.”

Melissa – who has been accepted on to the top up degree course at Derby University – currently balances studying with working at Busy Bees nursery in Wollaton.

She’s been there for three years and was recently promoted to senior room manager, looking after babies aged from three months to one year.

Reflecting on the HE course content, she added: “What we learn is all relatable and, when you’re interested in what you’re learning, it keeps you occupied and motivated.

My big interest is in forest school and outdoor play. I can’t believe I’ve been with Derby College since I was 16! I’ve come so far with college. I’m the first person in my family to get this far – to  degree level – in my education.”