I enrolled with a local training centre in April 2004, chosen because it had already processed some students so must have some experience in what is a new course. I expected to take longer than the suggested 12 weeks because I had not studied for a long time and rely on a patient friend for word-processing. But 19 months later my nightmare continues.
My main complaints are poor and inconsistent mentoring and appalling liaison between student and centre, which have resulted in several panel dates being completely wasted.
Last January I wrote a letter of complaint and had an interview with the head of the training centre, which was a waste of time.
I took advice from my local Early Years and Childcare Service and have written a second letter of complaint. They advised that I cannot change my training provider as I received European Social Funding, so I doggedly continue to pursue a pass certificate.
This has become a thoroughly depressing and demoralising experience for someone who has made early years childcare and education a much-loved career. I just hope APEL will have the status to make it worthwhile.
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