Cheryl’s delight at finishing ahead of schedule

Social Service and Healthcare student Cheryl Shoemaker has plenty to shout about after completing her studies, two months ahead of her course deadline date.

Studying on the Social Service and Healthcare Modern Apprenticeship Award – SCQF 7, Cheryl is one of many students who has had to adapt in their studies over the last few months, and her efforts have paid off.

Care home worker Cheryl, who is 33 and from Kelso, originally met fortnightly with her tutor Andrea Scott, face-to-face, to discuss work and plan evidence gathering. The lockdown put hold to this from the end of March, leaving her to find alternative options. 

Through various online tools, including WhatsApp video calls, she was able to discuss and gather evidence. Video calls also allowed her to carry out observations safely with no risk to either the service users or tutor. 

Responding really well to the new way of studying, she was proactive in seeking support and worked hard to complete her award before her deadline, delivering a portfolio of a really high standard, two months early.

Andrea Scott commented:

“Cheryl was very open in our discussions and shared what she felt worked well and what we could change to help her achieve her goals. We planned a good routine of discussing evidence and how she could relate this over different units.  

“There were many extra pressures on Cheryl both inside of work and out during this stressful period but she has demonstrated a determination to complete her award and has been a pleasure to work with.”

The SVQs in Social Services & Healthcare Modern Apprenticeships are work-based qualifications that can be achieved at 3 different levels to suit various job roles. These courses are designed for those employed in the Health and Social Care sector and have excellent candidate success levels.

Cheryl commented:

“Finishing my SVQ in the Social Service and Healthcare Award gave me a great sense of achievement and I was delighted to finish two months ahead of schedule, given the current situation.

“I’ve loved every minute of the course and it’s been a great learning experience. My course tutor Andrea was a great help and has been fantastic throughout.”

For more information on Social Service and Healthcare courses at Borders College, click here.