The arachaic idea of who represents a ‘student’ has thankfully changed over the last decade. However one demographic have been left behind and that’s student parents/carers. We are forgotten, unfacilitated or even expected to fail. Im a single mum to a twenty month old daughter and I want change!
My names Ciara Henry. My road to university has been anything but 'standard'. I worked my way through college to eventually secure my place on the second year of BSc Zoology. I took a year out after completing my second year at QUB to continue my career as a dog groomer (but silly me got pregnant on my leave of absence, whoops). It was only when I decided to return to finish my third year that I noticed the lack of support for student parents/carers. These support roles began to be filled by my lecturers. THIS IS NOT, NOR EVER SHOULD OF BEEN THEIR JOB. This is a service that should be provided by the university. from my experience I propose.
1. Recodings of lectures be made mandatory for topics that will appear in exams or in important coursework. (We've seen how possible/easy this is with COVID-19).
2. Leeway for parents on submission of coursework due too unforeseen circumstances with childcare.
3. Opportunities for part time placements, so that parents/carers can work and study when given the opportunity.
4. Student parents/carers get the opportunity to meet with a pastoral carer at the start of term who is equipped with knowledge to assist and guide them on the challenges the may face through out the year.
5. The development of a student parent/carers support group.