At NCC, it’s important to us to celebrate the achievements of our learners in their educational journey, whether it’s advancing academically, transitioning careers, or simply enjoying the process of learning. We aim to inspire others by showcasing what is possible and by sharing real-life experiences from the journey.

Elaine explains how she has been able to use her online qualifications with NCC to help kick-start her journey towards a career in counselling.

 

 

 

 

Elaine used her NCC course to help her get into university

“I had children very young, and so I never really went on to further education when I left school. My youngest boy was diagnosed as a child with ADHD, but when he left school we discovered that he was also autistic. I felt somewhat let down by the NHS psychiatrist for missing that diagnosis, as I feel that it would have made a difference to him growing up had we known about his autism diagnosis.

As I was nearing 40, I began to regret that I had not had the opportunity to go on to higher education and make a proper career for myself, and I wanted to be able to work in child mental health to help an already overwhelmed CAMHS to support many needy families. During COVID I was laid off at work, and although I was able to find work thank goodness, it really opened my eyes to the fact that I was in a career where I didn’t matter, I was just a number.

I decided to embark on a home learning course through NCC, and chose to do the two course bundle which covers both counselling skills and mental health. I thought that this would be a good entry qualification into a career within the NHS, however, I quickly learned that it wasn’t going to be that simple. I really enjoyed the course and was amazed at how quickly I managed to complete it. I think because of my personal experience and interest in the topic, that I really found it interesting and so was eager to get back to it in the evenings.

When I achieved my certificate I started looking towards the next steps. This was a knowledge-based qualification, and so would require further study before I would be able to join BACP, although there was the option to sign up with another counselling body ACCPH*. However, what it did provide me with was evidence of my ability to still manage study for university, and when I looked into what I was able to achieve in financial support I realised that university was possible. My course also provided UCAS points, which enabled me to scrape through the minimum requirements for university with my previous A level qualifications. I was really pleased about this because I thought in order to go to university I would be forced to complete a foundation year as a mature student, so using my online learning to demonstrate my ability to research and study was really useful.

I started university this September, and boy is it challenging! However, I am having the time of my life, and although I am so much older than my peers I have been welcomed into the group. I think that now I am getting to the end of my first term, I am proud of what I have achieved. I am now hoping to actually work towards becoming a child psychiatrist, but we’ll see what happens. No matter what, I know I will appreciate what I have accomplished and will enjoy giving something back and helping others.

Thank you to NCC for helping me get started on this journey, and for the excellent tutor support that actually pushed me to put more effort into researching for myself and providing more than I initially thought. I was upset initially when I was getting my assignments referred, but now I completely understand what my tutor was giving me, and I have to say a huge thank you to him for pushing me that bit more.”

How to become a child psychologist

Becoming an NHS (National Health Service) child psychologist in the UK typically involves a combination of education, training, and practical experience. Here is a general guide to help you navigate the path to becoming a child psychologist in the NHS:

1. Educational Requirements:

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree: Start by earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field. While a specific undergraduate degree in psychology is not always required, it can be advantageous.
• Gain relevant experience: During your undergraduate studies, try to gain experience working with children, adolescents, or families through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs.

2. Postgraduate Education:

• Complete a master’s degree: Many child psychologists pursue a master’s degree in clinical or educational psychology. This degree provides specialised training in working with children and adolescents.
• Gain practical experience: Master’s programs often include supervised placements or internships, allowing you to gain hands-on experience in a clinical setting.

3. Doctoral Training:

• Pursue a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology: The majority of NHS child psychologists hold a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. Admission to these programmes is highly competitive. Look for programmes accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).
• Gain clinical experience: Doctoral programmes typically include a period of supervised clinical practice. This practical experience is crucial for developing the skills required to work with children and families.

4. Registration and Licensing:

• Register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC): In the UK, practising psychologists, including child psychologists, must be registered with the HCPC. This involves meeting specific educational and training standards.
• Obtain chartered status with the British Psychological Society (BPS): Chartered status with the BPS is also important and may be required for certain positions.

5. Specialise in Child Psychology:

• Choose electives and placements that focus on child and adolescent psychology during your education and training.
• Consider additional training or certifications in specific areas such as play therapy, family therapy, or school psychology.

6. Gain NHS Experience:

• Apply for NHS positions: Look for opportunities to work within the NHS, either through training placements or entry-level positions. This might include working in child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) or related departments.

7. Continuous Professional Development (CPD):

• Stay current: Keep abreast of the latest developments in child psychology through continuous professional development activities, workshops, and training.

Remember that the specific requirements and pathways may vary, so it’s important to research the specific requirements of the NHS and any accrediting bodies in your region. Additionally, networking with professionals in the field and seeking guidance from mentors can be valuable throughout your educational and professional journey.

*  ACCPH is an independent professional body and registry catering to counsellors, coaches, psychotherapists, and hypnotherapists. While headquartered in the UK, they welcome members and accredit courses from organisations globally.

To ensure credibility, they thoroughly vet professionals before accepting them into the ACCPH membership register. They verify qualifications and require practitioners to provide current Professional Liability Insurance certificates upon joining and annually thereafter.

Their accreditation process adheres to the highest standards, aligning with benchmarks set by Ofqual, the Open & Distance Learning Quality Council, Frameworks for Higher Education, and similar bodies. This commitment to transparency, coupled with their comprehensive membership profile database, allows interested parties to make well-informed decisions about therapists or coaches. Their website profiles are intentionally concise, providing essential information to verify qualifications, while practitioners’ websites serve as comprehensive resources for additional details on their practices.

For practitioners, ACCPH offers a robust professional platform to transparently market skills, qualifications, websites, blogs, and social media to a targeted audience. This approach ensures a powerful and trustworthy presence in the professional community.

NCC is happy to provide further information or respond to any questions regarding these courses, or any of our courses on our website. Simply email [email protected] to communicate with one of our dedicated sales team, who will be happy to clarify anything that is unclear after reading the course details on our website.

References: About ACCPH, https://www.accph.org.uk/about

 

At NCC Home Learning we are all about celebrating the success of our students, and a recent email from a learner prompted us here to consider writing this article to demonstrate how you can use your NCC adult care or health and social care course to get you on track to starting a more rewarding career as a nurse within the NHS.

 

Lisa’s journey into nursing

Lisa joined our community of learners in September 2020 as she embarked upon the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care RQF regulated qualification.

 

“I really found the NCC tutor support exceptional, as I struggled initially to know where to start as I was a more mature student returning to education for a change of career. After facing redundancy for the second time, I realised that I needed to leave the retail sector and I decided that I wanted to give something back.

I wanted to become a nurse, but I couldn’t give up work to do that as I had a family to take care of. I took the Adult Care course with NCC and then managed to gain a placement within a care home nearby. It certainly was a challenge initially. I was obviously used to hard work, but the demands and responsibilities on care workers was a lot to take on initially, particularly as I was learning the role.

This unfortunately caused me to not be able to complete the course within the 12 months, but NCC were great, and I was able to purchase an extension and complete my course and gain my official qualification.

Last year I applied for a Trainee Nurse Associate vacancy at my local hospital in Bath, and I am now employed doing what I love. I will have to do a number of different placements within the hospital in order to meet my training needs, but so far, I am really enjoying my new job.

Thank you NCC for helping me get this far!”

 

What is a Nursing Associate?

Nursing associates collaborate with healthcare support staff and registered nurses to provide care for patients and the public.

In their professional role, nursing associates operate across various nursing domains, including adult, children’s, mental health, and learning disability. The scope of their skills and responsibilities depends on the specific care environment in which they are employed.

The standard working week for this role typically spans 37.5 hours, covering a variety of shifts, including nights, early mornings, evenings, and weekends. As a trainee nursing associate, your remuneration will typically align with band 3 on the Agenda for Change (AFC) pay system, progressing to band 4 upon qualification.

In addition to competitive pay, you’ll enjoy access to a comprehensive pension scheme and health service discounts.

Entry requirements

Embarking on your journey as a nursing associate requires GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A to C) in both maths and English, or Functional Skills Level 2 in these subjects. Some employers may also seek a level 3 qualification, such as the Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care RQF or the CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care RQF (if you don’t have a work placement in the care sector that is willing to mentor you). Demonstrating your ability to pursue a foundation degree level of study and successfully complete the Nursing Associate Apprenticeship programme is essential.

FAQs

Are you tired of being stuck in the same job? Do you feel like a career change is the right option? We have the advice just for you! Whether you’re looking to switch careers at 30, 40, or 50, in this article, you will learn how to change careers. We’ll explore the reasons for changing careers, the pros and cons, and provide you with a step-by-step roadmap to make a successful transition. 

What Is A Career Change

A career change is when someone wishes to seek different professional pathways outside of their current job. Changing careers doesn’t necessarily mean having to change industries entirely;  it can also involve exploring opportunities within your existing field if a different company culture or management style aligns better with your career aspirations.

People choose to change careers for various reasons, and these motivations can range from the desire for a more flexible work schedule to the pursuit of advancement within an organisation. Some switch careers to secure a higher salary, while others seek to reduce or increase their work-related travel. A career change might involve working under a different leadership team or shifting roles to mitigate stress and find a more appreciative work environment.

Additionally, taking online career courses can help you on your pathway to finding a different job. Not only does it demonstrate commitment to your new career direction, but it also equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in your chosen occupation.

Reasons For A Career Change

Deciding to change careers is due to various reasons, whether it be personal, financial, professional, as well as others. Whether you find yourself hitting a professional plateau or yearning for a fresh challenge in a different setting, the reasons for pursuing a career change are as diverse as the career changers themselves.

One common desire for a career change is for a shift in scenery or schedule. Perhaps you’ve grown weary of the daily routine and want more freedom that self-employment can offer, allowing you to better accommodate other commitments in your life. For instance, if you are a content writer, you may opt to do self-employed work on People Per Hour instead, where you will be approached to do freelance projects instead.

Certain professions are attractive options for career changers. Fields like teaching and law often welcome those from diverse backgrounds, making them particularly appealing to those with prior experience in unrelated sectors. These careers offer the opportunity to leverage existing skills and knowledge in new and meaningful ways.

It’s also important to be aware of the emotional challenges that come with changing careers. 

How to Switch Your Career Path

Here’s a step by step guide on how you can successfully change career paths without the concern of ruining your financial independence.

1. Determine Your Current Job Satisfaction:

Start by assessing your job satisfaction. This could include recording your daily feelings about your current role. This will help you understand your ideal work environment, your comfort level with your daily tasks, and if your management style aligns with your professional growth.

2. Review Your Interests, Core Values, and Skills:

Reflect on your achievements both academically and professionally, whether in volunteer roles, work experience, or academic projects. Identify your interests and how they can be leveraged in your new career.

3. Considering Other Career Options:

Outline what potential careers that you may wish to go into. This can be both within and outside your current industry. Compile a list of potential careers, both within and outside your current industry. Be sure to also seek advice from friends, family, and your professional network. If you need more ideas, consult with recruiters or career counsellors.

4. Seek Job Prospects:

Explore opportunities on job search websites to get insights into available positions that match your career interests. Maintain a varied list of potential careers to keep your options open.

5. Create an Action Plan:

Set clear goals and milestones for your career change. By now, you should have narrowed down your desired occupation through research. Consider factors like education, certifications, skill development, and industry experience. Developing a timeline of your career up to the present will help you to calculate where to go next.

6. Personal Rebranding:

Before applying for new jobs, refresh your personal brand. Revise your resume, cover letter, and social profiles to align with your new career goals. Personalise your materials to showcase how your existing experiences make you a strong fit for your desired role. Update business cards, personal websites, and contact information to reflect your new brand. It is also important to write a personal development plan and write the perfect CV here so that you are well prepared for your next interview and justify why you desire a career change, no matter your age.

7. Interviews:

Connect with professionals in your desired field or target companies, using platforms including Facebook and LinkedIn. Request informal interviews to gain valuable career advice and insights. Their experiences can provide inspiration and guidance as you navigate your career change.

8. Job Shadowing:

Consider shadowing professionals to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field. Shadowing experiences can vary in duration, from a few hours to a couple of days a week, depending on the employer’s policies.

9. Pursue Freelance and Volunteer Opportunities:

Changing careers doesn’t have to be related to paid work. You can also gain practical experience through freelance or volunteer opportunities related to your desired career. This is especially beneficial in creative fields with a demand for freelancers. Volunteering with local nonprofit organisations can enhance your skills and contribute to your community, and will also show your willingness and dedication to working even during your freetime.

10. Education and Skill Enhancement:

If further education is required for your career change, explore night or online courses for degrees, diplomas or certifications. Attend local seminars, workshops, or webinars to acquire specific skills. 

Need A levels? We have the perfect Online A Level course for you.

11. Skills Enhancement and Industry Transition:

Gather the skills that you have learned from your current career and see how these can be transferred to your new path. Identify areas for skill improvement through discussions with your line manager and colleagues. If you plan to stay with your current employer but change roles, express your interest in learning new skills or taking on different tasks.

12. Search Within Your Current Industry:

Consider open positions in your current industry that align with your skills and long-term goals. Shifting to a company or branch location that matches your aspirations can provide a smooth transition. 

How to Hand in Your Notice

Once you’ve secured a new job offer, it’s time to resign from your current position and hand in your notice. Here’s how you can smoothly hand in your notice with your current job.

Craft a Formal Resignation Letter: Begin by drafting a formal letter of resignation. Address it to your line manager, expressing your intention to leave your current position. Keep the letter simple, positive, and respectful. Include your planned date of departure, which typically aligns with your notice period. The notice period duration varies but is usually at least two weeks. However, it may be shorter during probation or longer for senior roles. Refer to your employment contract for specific notice period details.

Prepare for the Conversation: Be ready to discuss your reasons for leaving with your manager. This conversation could lead to various outcomes. You might receive an offer to stay with additional incentives, or your employer may request a longer notice period than expected. In some cases, especially if you’re joining a competitor, you might be placed on gardening leave. This involves suspension with full pay while serving your notice period, and you may be asked to leave your workplace immediately.

Receive Your P45: By law, your employer must issue a P45 document after you’ve handed in your notice. The P45 provides a record of the tax you’ve paid during the present tax year.. It consists of four parts, with one part kept for your records. The remaining parts are divided between His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and your new employer. For additional details, refer to GOV.UK’s PAYE forms section.

Leave a Positive Impression: After your notice has been accepted, focus on making a lasting positive impression. Maintain good relationships with your colleagues and managers during your remaining time. Provide relevant handover notes to facilitate a smooth transition for your replacement. Leaving on good terms increases the likelihood of receiving a positive reference for your next employment opportunity.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZhT_ZzUsMZ8

Career changing courses from NCC: 

With the surge in mental health issues being reported on a regular basis, in addition to the lack of capacity in the NHS, you could consider a career in counselling. Here at NCC we have created two 2-course bundles that could help you achieve this with ofqual regulated qualifications at a discounted price:

1. Counselling and Mental Health Level 2 RQF 
2. Counselling and Mental Health Level 3 RQF

The government’s plan to expand funded childcare for working parents will mean a huge shortage in an already oversubscribed service. You could either plan to work for yourself and use the Preparing to Work in Home-based Childcare Award RQF course provided by NCC as an evidence of knowledge to further qualify local government applications. 

Alternatively, we offer a Diploma for the Early Years Workforce (Early Years Educator) Level 3 RQF which is a regulated full and relevant qualification that counts towards the Level 3 staff-to-child ratio in the childcare sector.

You may be a young parent wanting to go into a profession that enables you to have school holidays and better working hours to support your young family. Should you wish to embark upon a career as a teaching assistant our Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Award Level 3 RQF would enable you to demonstrate relevant knowledge and distinguish yourself from others when applying for a role within a local school.

Another industry sector in the UK that is struggling due to overcapacity and staff shortages is the Care sector. A CACHE Level 3 Award in Health and Social Care RQF or a CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care RQF would be a perfect starting point for a career within this sector.

FAQs

Sources

People Per Hour (n.d.) Homepage. [online] Available at: https://www.peopleperhour.com/ [accessed 24/11/23]

Liu, J., (2023) 7 Emotional Challenges To Manage When Changing Careers. Forbes. [online] Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/josephliu/2023/11/09/7-emotional-challenges-to-manage-when-changing-careers/?sh=6c99f8f2f7c1 [accessed 24/11/23]

GOV.UK. (n.d.) PAYE Online for employers. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/paye-online [accessed 24/11/23]

GOV.UK. (n.d.) P45, P60, and P11D forms: worker’s guide. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/paye-forms-p45-p60-p11d [accessed 24/11/23]