Overall, I found Semester 1 to be an enjoyable, stimulating experience and I feel that my knowledge acquired will aid me in my further professional development at University and on placement.

In terms of the three modules (Values, Working Together and French). Values was the one that challenged me most but that also felt the most fulfilling once completed. The module made me question a lot of things about myself and my approaches towards certain topics/issues. Furthermore, I gained a stronger appreciation for the importance of values in teaching and how I can apply these in my practice to create an inclusive and nurturing environment for the children.

However, a milestone for me in my professional development from Semester 1 was the agency visit as part of the Working Together module. I was able to see first-hand how an organisation in my home town supported unpaid carers and disabled people of all ages and the importance of organisations such as this in giving everyone equal opportunities regardless of their circumstances. Throughout the module we had been discussing and learning about the importance of Education, Social Work and Community Learning and Development professionals working with one another. I felt I had a sufficient understanding and awareness of the importance of collaborative working, however, the agency visit gave me an insight into this in practice and heightened my appreciation. From this incident, I have learned how the different professions approach certain situations and how they can come together using these different approaches to ensure the service user gains the greatest possible outcome/experience. I have also learned to be more open-minded and not just listen and stick to what my education course mates say but other professional opinions too.

I can see how the process of reflection in going to be of great importance in my practice as it will not only allow me to look back on my achievements in University and on placement but to also see where I can improve upon to make sure that the children and myself can attain their full potential.