Social Work Students

[NorfolksGiven]

I'm starting a Social Work MA next week at a local University (the only one I can afford! - fees round here vary between £4,100 and £9,000 per year)

Are there any others who are starting the same course or the SW BA?

I'm feeling quite nervous and unconfident even though I am OK academically, did well in my 1st degree in 2012.

I'm worried about being surrounded by bright young things (I'm 40 this year) who are smarter and brighter than me.

I also have to carry on working PT as I have 4 kids so am worrying about logistics and having time for everything.

Eeeek!

I did a degree in social work when I was 46, there were some bright young things but quite a few mature students too. You're obviously academically up to scratch and your life experience will be invaluable. I'm sure you'll be fine.

I can't offer any advice re logisitics as my kids had already left home, and I didn't have to work (grants for mature students back in the good old days). You deserve respect for juggling childcare, study and part time work - be open with your tutors if you have problems occasionally and they will be understanding. Good luck.

Thank you

Told my line manager at work today, she was pleased for me. Said I can continue working as long as I can manage and have unpaid time off over my first placement - 70 days so that's good news.

Feeling nervous about starting still it will be fine... won't it?!

I might keep this thread going so I can look back at it

Although the bright young things won't be having to deal with your domestic responsibilities, remember they won't have your life experience to help them either

DD2 did one of the early UG social work degrees when they first started, 10 years or so ago. Since then the number of courses has been scaled back, because they've realised that the average 18-21 year-old just hasn't got the knowledge & experience of a mature student.

You'll be fine! Good luck with it all