BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies followed by PGCE 5-11, 2026, Lebanon, Student
“My experience of living in the UK and studying at Oxford Brookes University has been a defining milestone in my life, shaping my professional identity, personal values, and future aspirations.”
"I first discovered Oxford Brookes University while I was living in Lebanon."
My parents encouraged me to explore Early Years programmes taught in English. When we reviewed the Early Childhood Studies programme at Oxford Brookes, we were immediately impressed by the breadth of the curriculum and the practical opportunities it offered. The University’s strong reputation and programme ranking further confirmed that it was the right choice. Altogether, the academic quality of the programme, the focus on Early Years education, and the supportive living environment made Oxford Brookes feel like the right place for me to study and grow both personally and professionally.
"Studying in a UK academic environment has been both challenging and extremely rewarding."
Living in another country can be overwhelming at first, especially when you are studying and living independently. However, over the course of my three years as an undergraduate student, I have found this experience to be both transformative and enriching thanks to the Oxford Brookes community and academic support I have received.
"I have made a conscious effort to step outside my comfort zone."
This includes meeting new people, exploring new places, and actively engaging in social and professional opportunities. I have been a member of various societies, including the Musical Theatre, Outdoor, French, Latino, and Christian societies. Currently, at my postgraduate level, I am part of the Brookes Rowing team, where I attend training and develop my skills in teamwork alongside very close friends. Overall, the Brookes student community played a central role in helping me settle into both university life and the wider Oxford community.
"My relationship with my academic advisor was very positive."
She was consistently supportive, approachable, and available whenever I needed guidance, while encouraging me to make full use of the English language and academic writing modules, which significantly supported my progress. I was also supported by my Dissertation Supervisor who broadened my perspective on academic research and encouraged me to engage beyond the university setting, through which I became involved with the Early Childhood Studies Degree Network (ECSDN). I am very grateful for the academic guidance and opportunities provided by the University.
"Placements were a significant part of the Early Childhood Studies degree."
In my first year, I completed a 25-day consecutive placement in a nursery setting, which helped me build a strong foundation in early years practice and understand daily routines. In my second year, I completed 30 days of placement across nursery and foundation stage school settings, allowing me to deepen my practical skills, work across different early years environments, and gain confidence in supporting children’s learning and development. In my third year, I completed four placements in total, three within Early Years settings and one in a primary school, which confirmed my decision to progress into Primary Education. Across all placements, I engaged fully with reflective practice, and consistently enjoyed working closely with children, which reinforced my passion for working with young people.
"At present, I am completing a PGCE in Primary Education at Oxford Brookes."
Alongside my postgraduate studies, I continue to work as a Supply Early Years Educator in Oxford. Following my studies, I plan to leave the UK to continue developing my professional skills in an international context, aiming to work full-time as a Teaching Assistant, building on previous valuable learning experience that significantly supported my academic journey. Looking ahead, I am open to exploring several pathways within education, including Early Childhood Education leadership or business, and supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Overall, my experience of living in the UK and studying at Oxford Brookes University has been a defining milestone in my life, shaping my professional identity, personal values, and future aspirations.