Student views

Why Teesside?

I previously studied for an undergraduate degree at Teesside University, but after graduation I realised my chosen field was not for me. After attending an open day and researching options for further study I decided to return to Teesside.

Why social work?

I worked part-time as a special educational needs teaching assistant and as a support worker for adults with moderate to severe learning difficulties in a supported living environment. Moving into social work seemed to be the next logical step on the ladder to continue working in this field and progress my career.

Tell us about the placements.

I enjoyed my placements and found them extremely beneficial. I was lucky enough to be placed in an emergency duty team. Working shifts and having a good work-life balance showed me that social work did not need to be a nine-to-five. This prepared me well as I eventually moved into a very similar team in Auckland, New Zealand, where I have been working for the last seven years.

How did you find the facilities and support on offer?

The facilities were great and the support that I received from lecturers and student services was second to none.

Did you have a job while studying?

I worked as a support worker on a casual basis which fit in well with my placements and study schedule.

Has your experience at Teesside helped your career?

While studying at Teesside I gained valuable social work theory skills and vast on-the-job experience on my placements which was transferable into working situations. Since graduating I’ve moved to New Zealand and worked in a mental health long-term care team. I currently work in an urgent response mental health team, a set-up that is very similar to my university placement.

Ambitions for the future?

I hope to continue working in the mental health field in New Zealand and move into social work education, possibly lecturing.

Would you recommend Teesside?

Absolutely, particularly because of the support I received from tutors and staff. Since I studied at Teesside there are new top-level facilities and social aspects such as opportunities to join new clubs and try new sports.