Gary McMillan - BA (Hons) Social Work Distance Learning

Gary McMillan’s walk across the stage at P&J Live marks the completion of the BA (Hons) Social Work Distance Learning and his first steps as he looks to progress his career.

The 48-year-old lives and works in Edinburgh, but the nature of the course meant he has been able to finish the course.

Gary had already been working in the health and social care sector with young people facing homelessness in the nation’s capital and was keen to secure a professional qualification with the aim of moving into social work.

He said: “For mature students like myself, who work in health and social care, having the distance learning course available whilst working is vital, it will support many people into a career change whilst being able to remain in employment. Being able to attend the university in person twice a year, having face to face teaching and mix with classmates has also been of massive benefit.”

Gary said some of his previous learning helped him secure a place on the course and was enjoying applying what he learned at his placement.

He said: “I am a mature student who has worked for many years, I completed SVQ’s and open university modules to allow me to access the degree course, all whilst working in Edinburgh.

“My placement was in Glasgow in an adult setting that worked with people facing homelessness, addiction issues, people who had offended, had come out of prison and were seeking rehabilitation support into the community.

“The placement took me out of my comfort zone, it was a different service user group to work with and it was challenging working with people requiring support of a very different nature that I am used too.

“The weekly support and supervision from my RGU social work practice educator was invaluable and really challenged me and built up my knowledge, skills and development towards completing the social work degree.”

The BA (Hons) Social Work Distance Learning degree is designed for someone already working in a related social care role. It will provide the knowledge, values and skills required by the Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC) to practice as a qualified Social Worker. As a Social Worker, you will have a vital role in society providing support and protection to people who are disadvantaged and vulnerable.