Jess Fleming

My name is Jess Fleming, I am 26 years old, and I studied Early Years Education at University Centre South Essex from October 2018 to May 2021. This is my story.

Before starting my degree, my journey into education hadn’t been straightforward. I had previously completed a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education through an apprenticeship in 2013 after leaving college due to a poor experience. I went on to work in nurseries and later as a ride host at Adventure Island. After having my daughter in 2015, I began thinking more seriously about my future and what I wanted long-term. I had always wanted to teach, but university had never been part of my plan.

Everything changed when I spoke to South Essex Colleges Group for careers advice. I was invited to meet with the Early Years programme lead, and after that conversation, I felt inspired to take a leap and start my degree. It felt like the opportunity had found me rather than the other way around.

During my time at University Centre South Essex, I took part in a wide range of opportunities that helped me grow personally and professionally. I became a student representative, a uni-buddy and worked with students across different courses. I also took part in CPD activities alongside my studies, which even led to a career change - from a ride host to working as a security guard, which was a completely new and valuable experience.

Higher education challenged me in the best possible ways. It helped me improve my time management and gave me a strong sense of motivation, but most importantly, it built my confidence. I began to understand my abilities, develop my own opinions and truly believe in myself.

In my first year, I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia, which was overwhelming at the time. However, the support I received from the university was incredible. I was supported not just academically, but emotionally too. The tutors were always there to help, listen and guide me through challenges, even outside of my studies.

As a parent, the flexibility and understanding from the university meant everything. I was never made to feel like a burden if I needed to prioritise my child. My daughter even joined some of my online sessions and got to know my lecturers, which made the experience even more positive and personal.

One of the things I valued most about studying at UCSE was the smaller class sizes. It created a much more personal learning experience where you feel seen, recognised and supported. The tutors take the time to understand how you learn best and provide the guidance you need to succeed. I truly believe that if I had studied somewhere else, I might not have completed my degree.

There have been many achievements along the way, but one of my proudest moments was submitting my dissertation. It was something I had worked hard on, and I never imagined I would reach that point. It showed me how far I had come.

Over the course of my degree, my ambitions also evolved. Initially, I wanted to go into primary teaching, but through the experiences I had, I discovered a passion for supporting older learners. I have now chosen to pursue a PGCE in Further Education, with the long-term goal of progressing into Higher Education teaching.

Looking back, I’ve come a long way. I went from being unsure, lacking confidence and never considering university, to becoming someone who is confident, driven and passionate about learning and helping others succeed.