A resource to help you feel seen, heard and supported
The idea for this website resource really took shape during my own professional doctorate in education. As part of my research, I had the privilege of conducting extensive interviews with 20 incredible working parent learners, all tackling an undergraduate degree or an Access to HE course. I also spoke with many of their dedicated tutors and wider support staff. Throughout these conversations, certain themes came up again and again. It was clear that balancing studying with a job, raising and caring for children from new-borns right through to teenagers, and managing all the tasks involved in running a family home – from daily chores to planning celebrations and holidays – felt like a constant tightrope walk whilst spinning plates! Yet, it is increasingly common for any undergraduate to work whilst studying, and if you are a parent, most likely you are working whilst studying because family life is only getting more expensive. I wanted to learn more about the experience and to create a resource to help you to feel seen, heard and supported.
Time management, time management, time management…
“Time management” was mentioned by every single adult learner I spoke to. It’s a concept we often hear about, but as busy adult learners, we know it’s potentially impossible to “manage” time, because in reality, time often manages us!
I can’t promise a magic solution to make more hours in the day. Instead, this website is designed to recognise the very real challenges you face fitting everything in. It’s here to provide inspiration and success stories from people just like you, offering motivation when you need it most. And finally, it’s a place to collate and curate together practical techniques and tips for time management that busy adult learners can genuinely try out.
My hope is that this resource becomes a valuable tool in your HE journey, helping you navigate the complexities of your packed life with greater confidence and less stress. Let’s explore together how you can thrive in your studies while cherishing your family and fulfilling your work commitments.
