I became a Study Skills Advisor at the beginning of the Covid pandemic as a bit of a gamble – though my current colleagues might call it planned happenstance. Working in further education as a teacher at the time, I saw a post advertised and was intrigued by the blend of teaching and student support and could recognise the importance of this type of learning for my then students. I wanted to give it a try. The ALDinHE network, LD@3 sessions and resource bank were all invaluable to help me get settled into the role.
As I engaged with the network, I became aware of the Certified Practitioner status, but due to my unorthodox entry into the profession I didn’t really consider applying for several years. However, after a discussion one afternoon and a little urging from some colleagues, I took a look at the guidance and decided to pluck up the courage to begin collating experience and evidence towards the value statements.
The process was clear, and the guidance documentation available answered any lingering questions I had. I found the opportunity for reflection on my practice and reflexivity in relation to my values, motivations and behaviours really useful. Planning and drafting the submission provided an opportunity to explore what I did and why as well as how this ultimately impacted on student outcomes and learner experience. Not only did it help me to recognise how far I’d come but I had the opportunity to really unpick how I relate theory and research I’d read, with things I’d picked up from colleagues to my own day-to-day role. I found it particularly useful during this time to work with a mentor within my own team; having someone to talk through answers and requirements made the whole process very smooth.
After my initial submission I received the request for a little additional information on one of my answers. Even this was a positive experience and a timely opportunity to be on the receiving end of feedback. With a few tweaks I resubmitted and within weeks was an ALDinHE Certified Practitioner, proudly adding the logo to my email signature.
Applying for certified practitioner helped me to value my own experience and gave me the confidence to chase a new challenge. I have since moved into a new role within my institution – I work as an Employability and Enterprise Officer – but still very much feel that what I do is part of learning development.