Case Study

Before I came to study at the University of Sunderland, I worked as a Child Protection Officer in Nigeria, supporting children and families in crisis. This role allowed me to advocate for children’s rights and wellbeing, and it heightened my passion for working with young people. After years of meaningful work in the field, I knew I wanted to expand my knowledge and gain a deeper theoretical foundation, so I decided to pursue the MA Childhood and Youth Studies degree, specifically following the Youth Work pathway the course offered. Starting my journey at Sunderland gave me the perfect academic grounding to build on my real-world experience.

I chose Sunderland because of its strong reputation for its childhood and youth studies courses, as well as its supportive learning environment. Relocating from Nigeria, I appreciated the sense of community and the focus on academic and practical aspects of youth work. I found a welcoming network of peers and mentors who supported my goals and shared my passion for youth advocacy.

The course modules were enriching and immediately applicable, helping me bridge my practical skills with research-based insights. The placements and project-based learning were the highlights of my studies, offering hands-on experience that deepened my theoretical understanding and helped me develop further. The course led me to appreciate new perspectives on youth work, from safeguarding practices to developmental psychology, which shapes my work when it comes to trauma-informed approaches and evidence-based practice. I’m now able to balance empathy with proven methods, allowing me to support young people more effectively.

I was also able to draw on my previous experience to contribute to discussions and collaborative projects, which reinforced my learning. I appreciated the University’s emphasis on connecting theory to practice, and the ability to engage with real-life case studies, giving me the opportunity to bring my experience into the classroom. As a recent graduate of the MA, I feel well prepared to continue supporting young people in impactful ways.

For anyone considering studying at Sunderland, I’d encourage you to take full advantage of everything the course and supportive academic staff can offer you. The experience will be even more meaningful if you connect with your peers, so make sure you actively engage in discussions and collaboration. Sunderland’s supportive community and focus on practical learning have been invaluable to both my personal and professional growth, and I’m grateful to have developed skills that’ll serve me well in my career in youth work.

Reflecting on my journey, I can truly say that my time at the University of Sunderland has been transformative. I’m leaving with a deeper understanding, a stronger network, and the confidence to continue supporting young people as they navigate life’s challenges.”

Published 16 October 2024