Amy Colle Camara

I am originally from Senegal, I came to the UK in July 2020 during covid because I got married to my now husband who is British.  Going back years ago I stopped my education in college because during that time in Senegal my family expected me to stay home and do the housework, there was never encouragement to be in education, mainly girls were treated this way rather than boys. I’m now 47 and in education when I should have done this years ago. I also was going through landlord issues but i still passed my 2 exams. 

I’ve always wanted to work in childcare, so after coming here I did some research and saw that WAES had good learning opportunities within this industry. Also, seeing how kids are raised here and what other parents aspire for their kids has been interesting. My daughter is 19 and lives in Senegal but when she finally comes here, I’ll know some of the things she should apply or experience in the UK.  

One of my favourite aspects of the childcare course is learning about the emotional impact on children and their dietary needs. In my country this isn’t really something that is taught.  For example, in my country if a child cries because they can’t have sweet parents just think that’s the reason but if you look deeper there is sometimes a much deeper issue like they are lacking emotional nurture something like that. 

As for The Green Live Learning Lab sessions, I thought I’m in anew to the country and I’d like to save money who doesn’t?! So it came in handy to know how I could be sustainable and save on costs on this i invested in the smart meter.

My tutors have been very supportive, you can message them on Microsoft Teams, and they’ll be willing to help after college hours. They always encourage me to speak and get involved in activities which help boost my confidence. I’m free to speak my mind comfortably.  

All of my courses combined will help me find employment in childcare and I’m no longer afraid to build connections or feel embarrassed about my English. I couldn’t do this 3 years ago.