Catherine Brunton-Spal

MSc Children and Young People

“Why did you choose to study at Anglia Ruskin University?
I live in Cambridge and have a young family so the location was ideal and I liked the sound of the new MSc course that the university was offering. I also chose Anglia Ruskin University because they offer the option to work part-time.

What initially attracted you to your course?
I studied BA (Hons) Child and youth studies at undergraduate so I saw this course as an extenuation of my learning and a way to apply theory to some of the first hand experience I had gained in the work place with children. I also was keen to network with other professionals from across different disciplines.

Which aspects of your course do you enjoy most and why?
The group discussion is always very interesting and stimulating; I enjoy learning from my peers and their experience. I also found the teaching input was on the whole at a high standard and covered a broad range of theory. I was then able to go and further my learning independently by applying the theory to my particular areas of expertise and interest.

Has the course met/exceeded your expectations? If so, how?
I was not entirely sure what to expect, but yes I am happy I chose this course. I feel I have learnt a lot and furthered my academic skills immensely.

Would you recommend your course to others?
It is flexible and allows you to tailor the assignments to your own requirements. It also combines practical knowledge with learning new academic skills.

Please tell us about any special features that you have benefited from on your course.
The option to chose one module meant I was able to study outdoor learning, which is a real passion of mine.

Are you currently employed? If so, what is your job title?
No. I chose to do the masters part-time, as my children are still quite young.

What are your ambitions/plans for the future, and how do you feel that your course will help you to achieve these?
I hope to go into a career in research in the area of child and youth studies, and also to go on to study for PhD eventually. I feel this masters has given me an excellent foundation of knowledge and I have learnt a broader range of research skills.

How do you rate the support offered by both our teaching and support staff?
On the whole the teaching staff we all very supportive and gave plenty of helpful feedback. I also made use of the university counselling service which was excellent.

How do you rate our facilities and resources on offer at our campuses?
Very good - the library is a good place to study and the staff are very helpful. We have an excellent chef at the Helmore restaurant and the food is good value for money. There is also a Costa coffee and a small gym.

Please tell us about any course/Faculty specific facilities that you have found useful during your studies?
The university has a Children's & Young Peoples Research Institute (CYRI) which host regular seminars in Cambridge and Chelmsford. I have been to a range of seminars by fascinating speakers.

What was the favourite aspect of your non-academic life? i.e. any social/sporting activities.
I have got involved with the university Grad Society which had been a great opportunity to meet new people, socialise and learn from others. They host a range of lectures and social activities through out the year.

How do you find fitting your studies around your outside commitments including work, family etc?
It has been a juggling act at times, but on the whole the part-time study has worked well and my youngest child now goes to the nursery on campus (which has a very high standard of care). My only complaint is that the time tables don't come out until July, which makes sorting childcare arrangements out very tricky to do.

How would you sum up your experience of studying at Anglia Ruskin University so far?
Challenging, enjoyable and rewarding.
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