Students on the education and early years curriculum at West Nottinghamshire College welcomed a former student, who returned to share his experiences of progressing from further education into higher education and professional training within the early years sector.
Kia was welcomed by early years students who found out more about his nanny training with world renowned organisation.
Kia Shaw, 22, previously studied education and early years at the college, where he developed the foundational knowledge and practical skills that supported his successful transition into higher education. He is now in his third year of study with Norland, the world-renowned specialist institution for early years education and care.
Kia is currently studying the BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care, alongside the prestigious Norland Diploma, a unique skills-based qualification that sets Norland graduates apart within the sector.
During his visit, Kia spoke to students about his journey from college into degree-level study at Norland in Bath, highlighting how his Advanced Technical Certificate in Childcare and Education course helped prepare him for the academic demands, professional expectations, and practical elements of university life.
He provided insight into Norland’s specialist approach, explaining that unlike larger universities offering a wide range of subjects, Norland focuses exclusively on early years education, creating a highly supportive and personalised learning environment.
Kia described Norland as a close-knit community, where small cohort sizes allow students to build strong relationships with lecturers and peers. He spoke about the balance between academic study and hands-on learning, with students undertaking lectures alongside practical training in areas such as child development, care skills, food and nutrition, health and wellbeing, and professional practice.
Kia said: “I chose Norland because it offers specialist training in early years alongside a degree. It’s a small university where you really get to know the staff and feel supported – it genuinely feels like one big family. The course is very practical as well as academic, so you’re not just sitting in lectures.
“You’re learning real care skills and applying theory in practice, which prepares you for a wide range of roles in early years.”
Kia also shared details of his extensive placement experience working directly with families and babies as part of his training. Throughout his course, he has supported families with children ranging from newborns to toddlers, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as baby care routines, feeding, sleep, health and wellbeing, and supporting children’s development in a home environment.
He explained how these placements helped him develop confidence, professionalism, and a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved in working closely with families, including learning professional boundaries and adapting care to meet the individual needs of each child.
Kia highlighted the global reputation of Norland and the career pathways available to graduates, explaining that students gain two qualifications – a BA (Hons) degree and the Norland Diploma – which open doors to diverse roles within early years education, teaching, specialist childcare, and family support worldwide.
Early years teacher Amanda Johnson said: “Kia’s visit gave our current students the opportunity to hear first-hand about progression routes within the sector and the realities of studying at degree level.
“His return also demonstrated the value of further education as a stepping stone into higher education and professional success.
“We’re so proud to celebrate the achievements of former students like Kia and we’re always supportive of those students who wish to progress into higher education, training, and rewarding careers within this rewarding sector.”