Inspired by her own learning journey, Katie Mitchell is working towards a career in childcare, with a dream of supporting neurodiverse children.

18-year-old Katie came straight to NESCol from school last year. She gained experience working with children in her final year, completing a Social Care (Children & Young People) Foundation Apprenticeship as part of her school timetable in sixth year.

Katie said, “I always knew I wanted to work with children, and decided to study at NESCol after attending an Open Day. I was originally going to do NC Childhood Practice, as this is good preparation for the HNC. However, as the NC is at the same level as my Foundation Apprenticeship, I thought I would throw myself straight into the HNC instead.”

Katie’s motivation for helping those who are neurodivergent came from her own struggles with education. She had a difficult experience, particularly in her senior years at school, and was referred to CAMHS at the end of sixth year.

A few months into her HNC, Katie received a life-changing diagnosis of ADHD and Autism.

She said, “It took a while to come to terms with everything, but it’s been a weight off my shoulders. I understand myself better now, and so do others. I was relieved that what I felt was real, and I’m grateful to CAMHS for continuing to support me.

“I always wanted to be a teacher, and being diagnosed as neurodivergent late has inspired me even more. I want to stop this happening to other children and help them get diagnosed earlier.”

Katie also encourages women to advocate for themselves if they think they are neurodivergent.

She said, “Neurodivergent women often fly under the radar but know that your thoughts and feelings are valid – you deserve to be listened to as well so keep pushing for a diagnosis.”

Studying childcare at NESCol

Although she faced an adjustment after her diagnosis, Katie persevered with her course and started to flourish at College.

She said, “I would definitely recommend the course. The lecturers have been really nice; they are great at communicating with us and asking us what we need.

“The classroom is like an actual nursery and even has sinks as low down as your knees for children washing their hands. There are a lot of resources like books, as well as PPE, nappies and bottles that you can practice using.”

Being able to manage her ADHD made coursework and assignments clearer and easier, allowing Katie to write an incredible 80,000 words for her graded unit!

Her hard work, resilience and exceptional attitude were highlighted at the 2025 Go Celebrate! Awards as well as at NESCol’s Childcare Placement Awards.

Katie won both the Go You! Award, which recognises students who face and overcome challenges, and the Star Award, for excelling whilst on her placement.

College and placement support

Katie had a very positive experience on placement, where she worked in Kemnay Primary School Nursery.

She said, “The part of the course I enjoyed the most was my placement. The nursery staff were really good and all very understanding.

“I spoke to my lecturers and the nursery, and we managed to arrange working hours that suited us all. I was able to build up my days and hours over time, so it wasn’t overwhelming.

“The lecturers know the course is intense, but they are prepared to put things in place to help you.”

Next steps

Katie is still planning on a career in childcare – after taking an exciting gap year!

She said, “My plan is continue working my part-time job over the summer and then go to Australia for a year.

“I achieved three Highers in school, so completing my HNC will allow me to go to university. I’m currently deciding whether I apply for primary teaching like I originally planned, or study childhood practice.

“I really enjoyed working with the younger age group but there are positives to both routes. I’m hoping my year out will help me decide – although I might not come back if I like Australia too much!”

Katie’s advice

Katie’s advice to childcare students is to get involved as much as possible with your course.

She said, “Speak to your lecturers! Don’t be afraid to just send them an email. In class, bite the bullet and ask the questions no one else will.

“Your graded unit is tough, so I’d advise not worrying about working during this time if you can avoid it – particularly if you’re neurodiverse. Definitely speak to the placement staff and lecturers as they can be flexible and want you to succeed.”

Study Care at NESCol

People are at the heart of a career in childcare, social care, and healthcare. Like Katie, you’ll make a real difference to the lives of others.

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