Hear from our students on the Attachment, Trauma and Mental Health PGCert

1. Why did you decide to study a PGCert in Attachment, Trauma and Mental Health?

Beth

I chose to study the Attachment, Trauma and Mental Health PGCert at Chester because I want to learn more about mental health and how I can use this knowledge to understand how I can use my skills to help others. 

Louise

My previous course at university was undertaking a BA Primary Education for ages 5-11 which has given me Qualified Teacher Status. Whilst completing this, I wrote my third-year dissertation of the educational attainment and well-being of children in care. Due to the clear links to attachment, trauma, and mental health my supervisor recommended this course to me as way to further develop my understanding into the ways in which a child's individual experiences can affect them and how these effects can be mitigated.

2. What are you liking most about your course?

Beth

I like how the information on the course is presented and how it is explained through videos, diagrams, articles through the use of slides. There are additional, independent tasks to complete, which further help with learning, and you always have the option of either listening or contributing to discussions. The flexibility of the course to fit around my job is also a big positive as the course is part-time and online, with plenty of time to complete assignments.

Louise

I am very much a face-to-face learning advocate and so the in-person weekend lectures have been brilliant. Being able to meet with and talk to new people who have different experiences from my own has allowed me to look at relevant academic resources in different perspectives. On a personal note, the course as a whole has been extremely interesting and whilst it can be intense managing a full-time job alongside my education, I am glad I am participating in something that will both impact my career as well as my personal life.

3. How are you supported through your learning?

Louise

Overall, the subject matter is extremely interesting but, on occasion, there are journals that describe studies that may be of a distressing nature. These instances are all handled with extreme caution and there is an excellent level of personal and emotional support within the University for anyone who may find the information triggering in any way.

Beth

I am supported through my learning by having lecturers who organise team calls to discuss assignments which are really helpful. If I have any questions about an assignment, they offer guidance and support and I also appreciate the academic skills team who are so helpful with referencing queries. 

4. How does this course prepare you for your future goals and would you recommend it?

Beth

My future academic further study goals include continuing to learn more about the psychology of mental strength and how through consistency, and resilience, a positive impact can be made. This course has helped me prepare for the future because I am continuing to learn how positive change can be made when support is taken. I would recommend this course to any undergraduates considering studying the PGCert, as it is an emotive, thought provoking course. 

Louise

I am looking to continue my career in education and will be applying for Teaching jobs. I am hoping that through participating in this course as additional CPD I will be more employable within the Education sector. I would recommend a master's degree for anyone who may be looking to further their knowledge in any field for either professional or personal reasons. Whilst a master’s course is intense at times, it can also be extremely rewarding.

Make sure to check out our course page for the PGCert in Attachment, Trauma and Mental Health to find out more about how you can help people through your learning.