Placement overview
Name: Mya
Vocational area: Childcare and Early Years
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Crete
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My placement was challenging at first because of the language barrier, but it pushed me to adapt my communication style, use more visual and practical methods, and be patient. Gaining experience in a different setting has helped me become more adaptable and has given me a broader understanding of early years practice.
The motivation
This was my first experience of working abroad and travelling independently without my family. I wanted the chance to work in partnership with people from different backgrounds and see how their early years curriculum differs from ours.
The placement
I worked in a kindergarten assisting children with their daily tasks. I was given the opportunity to be the art lead. I planned and delivered art activities for the children and created a display to support a lesson on British culture.
My biggest achievement was teaching the children English EYFS rhymes. It was challenging at first because of the language barrier, but pushed me to adapt my communication style, use more visual and practical methods, and be patient. Seeing the children begin to understand and join in with the rhymes felt like a real accomplishment and showed me how effective creative teaching strategies can be.
The location
I loved exploring the old town of Rethymno, it had such a warm atmosphere, and the locals were incredibly welcoming and curious.
The impact
My placement enabled me to feel more confident in my skills when working with younger children, especially in a new environment. It strengthened my communication and teamwork abilities, as I worked closely with colleagues. Gaining experience in a different setting has helped me become more adaptable and given me a broader understanding of early years practice, which I know will benefit me in my future career.
I plan to work within the Early Years of a mainstream primary school and further educate myself to become a speech and language therapist.
Outcomes
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Improved language skills
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Exposure to cultural experience
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Confidence building
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Improved people skills
Collaboration and partnership is at the heart of what we do.
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