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My disability is not an inability, says Fudia

Fudia Backert is a busy mum-of-three who recently completed her apprenticeship. Fudia, who has a hearing impairment, worked hard to complete her qualification and was supported in her journey by Realise.

Now, in Fudia’s own words, she wants to send a message to others that if you want something, you can make it happen:

“Prior to becoming an apprentice I was a stay at home mum. It was when the children went to school that I thought it was time to do something with my life.

I decided to approach my local nursery, MerryKidz Childcare, to see if they had any job opportunities, and they did. They took me on and it wasn’t long after that my manager asked me to do my Level 3 Childcare Qualification with Realise.

As an Early Years Practitioner Apprentice at MerryKidz Childcare, I help improve children’s development in every area of their lives, which includes cognitive, language and better school readiness. I also allow parents to have time to rest, go to work or study, whilst being safe in the knowledge that their little ones are being safely looked after.

I love absolutely everything about my job – especially watching the children grow to their full potential. When I am having a deep conversation with the children, they never fail to make me laugh!

I’d advise anyone thinking of completing an apprenticeship to go for it and don’t give up, no matter how challenging, because if you really want something, you can make it happen.

Fudia’s advice to others thinking of doing an apprenticeship

The staff were all very helpful and made me feel involved

Fudia’s experience of the training sessions

Now I truly believe my disability is not an inability

Fudia reflecting on her apprenticeship

Fudia’s experience with Realise

“The training I received from Realise has helped me to develop my skills, become good at my job and keep track of the children’s development. I particularly enjoyed first aid training and speech and language training as they allowed me to identify delayed speech in children, as well as how to respond correctly to an accident or emergency.

It has been a challenging but rewarding experience. During my study I did face some challenges such as having to listen to webinars and doing sessions online. The staff were all very helpful and made me feel involved.

I had to put in a lot of effort into my work, doing research and revising during my spare time. I was motivated to complete with a lot of support and encouragement from others, but mostly from encouraging myself.

I am not going to say it was easy but with perseverance, motivation and effort you will surely get there at the end.

I was working with three young children and a home to look after as well as my husband, but this is no excuse, as you can do what you put your mind to.

I’d advise anyone thinking of completing an apprenticeship to go for it and don’t give up, no matter how challenging, because if you really want something, you can make it happen.

As mother of three young children completing an apprenticeship at the same time, it has been a challenging experience but it was so worth it.

Thank you so much to my assessor Kerry for the inspiration and motivating words to make me believe I can do this. Now I truly believe my disability is not an inability.”

If Fudia’s story has inspired you to consider an apprenticeship in childcare, head over to the childcare section of our website where you can find out about our range of apprenticeships and express your interest.