Sourianna Wallace has graduated from the T level Early Years in Education course, earning a Distinction, for which she is in her own words, “over the moon.”

Why the T level at Leicester College?

Sourianna said: “I had heard about the T levels at Leicester College through social media. I had done the previous level 2 course, so a lot of the lecturers were encouraging me to work forward and go on to do the T level course.

“I chose to do a T level over other options because it offers you work experience and it’s the equivalent of 3 A levels. I thought it was very beneficial to me and my future, so I had chosen it for that reason.”

One step closer to your dream career with T levels

“I picked this course because I really wanted to work with children and have that experience with them, working in a setting as well as experiencing different skills and learning a lot more on the theory side of it.

“I love working with children as I find it so rewarding to see them reach their milestones, see them progress. It’s such a great thing to witness and know that you’re supporting them. I’ve just always enjoyed being in their company and I want to make sure that they have the childhood they deserve and for them to progress as much as possible.”

Working whilst learning with T levels

“I did my work experience for two years at the primary school I actually attended! They knew me very well so it was great. It was very easy for me to find a placement as I lived locally and as they knew me very well, they were very keen on getting me to work with them. I fitted in straight away and they said I had a natural talent with children, which was the most amazing feedback.”

T levels offer a perfect balance

“The balance of the course being a blend of theory and practical work is very convenient and suited me well. I would say it was a great balance as I had two days at placement and three days at college, so I could progress in my theory and in my practical skills at the same time.”

Gaining skills for life with T levels

“The main practical skills I have developed whilst being on the course are problem solving. I am able to know how to solve any issues that would go on at placement and know how to deal with certain situations following policies and procedures.

“I have also developed some valuable personal attributes such as growing my confidence over the past couple of years. I have so much more faith in myself now and I know how to express myself, not only to my peers and lecturers but to children as well, which is very important to me.”

T levels are worth it

Sourianna expresses her thoughts on T levels saying: “T levels is a great option for anyone who like me prefers to work practically and prefers having that work experience. I would definitely recommend it for that reason, whereas other options may not offer that and might just have a theory-based course. With T levels, it really allows you to apply the skills you’re learning on the course practically, in real time.”

Career aspirations and next steps

Sourianna shared her future plans saying: “I would like to find a position at a childcare setting, perhaps a teaching assistant in a primary school or working one-on-one with pupils.

“I am very passionate about mental health, so I would like to go into that field in the future, maybe into counselling.

“My next steps are to do some online courses in counselling and mental health to improve my skills further, and eventually find a place to work,” Sourianna concludes.