Academic Skills Tutor Review

I provide academic skills support to Nottingham Trent University students within the University's library. I meet with students for 1-1 appointments, deliver open and embedded workshops to larger groups of students, and I do all of this online and / or face-to-face. I also create e-Resources for NTU's VLE.

On my course I have learned about the different teaching philosophies and what they look like in practice. I've learned more about why I teach the way I do, e.g., I believe in Social Learning because students learn best when they are supported but can do it themselves.

I have really enjoyed the programme so far. I have just completed my first assignment and have full confidence that I have done a good job because the teaching staff are so excellent. The sessions are really interactive and the online content is easy to understand and complete in my own time.

The programme is structured brilliantly. There are 10 teaching blocks over the 18 months, with each lasting 5-8 weeks. The live sessions occur once a month, where I can meet with my peer support group and speak to the teaching staff. The online content is also easy to find and navigate through.

I receive a lot of support from my employer, my manager has allowed me the 20% off the job training that is required so I am out of work for 1 day a week so I can attend the live classes or complete the online activities for that particular week.

The course team have been fantastic. They are helpful in the live sessions and are always available via email and Microsoft Teams if I need anything or want to ask any questions. They also regularly ask for feedback, so I know they are there to support me in any way they can.

This qualification has already given me new ideas to test out in my practice. For example, I have watched the teaching staff deliver sessions in particular ways and I have gotten to see that as a student. It's also helped me evaluate my own practice and what I might do differently.

I work and study at Nottingham Trent University, so I am automatically enrolled into the Students' Union. While I haven't joined any sports teams or social activities, I have enjoyed the professional networking events on offer as a staff member, e.g., Writing a Textbook with lecturers / guest speakers.

Yes

I would recommend null to a friend because the system was painless as my employer / course team organised everything for me. I completed an apprenticeship application form online and provided my supporting documents, e.g., CV, Qualification certificates. Everything was well communicated to me by staff and through email updates.

If you are applying to null, see if you can seek support from your employer and / or course team. As I was already employed by the University everything was done for me, but even if you're not you should still receive the excellent support I received through the process.