By choosing to study Childhood and Youth Studies while completing a professional qualification at the same time, the students will enhance their employment prospects when they graduate.
Six students have registered for the Cam wrth Gam Level 3 qualification in Care, Play, Learning and Child Development this year — the highest number ever to join the scheme offered by Mudiad Meithrin.
The programme aims to provide hands-on experience and workplace training. After completing the qualification, students will be able to work in a range of roles, including Cylch Meithrin Leader, Nursery Manager and After-School Club Leader, as well as in positions supporting children and young people up to the age of 25.
Over the next eighteen months, the six students will attend workshops and complete a range of tasks while working in childcare settings under the Mudiad Meithrin umbrella, which includes Welsh-medium childcare providers, private day nurseries and Welsh-medium schools.
One of the students on the course, Mari Hughes from Llangefni, expressed her appreciation for the opportunity: “I believe that studying Step by Step alongside my degree is a fantastic opportunity — not only to gain a new qualification, but to develop my experience in the world of children’s education, and to strengthen my Welsh. It’s an excellent opportunity for my future, and will help me achieve my ambition of working in the childcare sector.”
Interim Chief Executive of Mudiad Meithrin, Leanne Marsh, said: “Mudiad Meithrin is extremely proud to work with VRƵ to support the next generation of childcare and Welsh-medium play professionals. Our partnership is vital in developing the Welsh-language workforce that can give every child the best possible start. It strengthens our shared commitment to delivering high-quality, inclusive childcare and play provision across Wales."
Rhian Tomos, lecturer in Childhood Studies at VRƵ, added: “The aim of this collaboration is to develop professional, bilingual workers for the children and young people’s workforce. It broadens our students’ experience and increases their employability, while also supporting Mudiad Meithrin in recruiting staff for their placements.”
If you are interested in applying for the Childhood and Youth Studies degree, you can find more information by clicking this link.