Growing Confidence and Leadership through the Children and Young People SCQF 9 MA
Overview
When Fiona Deeney stepped into her new role as Deputy Manager with Aspris Children’s Services, she was ready for the challenge—but like many new leaders, she felt her confidence didn’t yet match her responsibilities. To strengthen her leadership capabilities and meet SSSC registration requirements, Fiona embarked on her Children and Young People SCQF 9 with RT Resources under the Modern Apprenticeship scheme.
Today, she not only feels more assured in her practice and decision‑making but has become an advocate for the programme, supporting colleagues who are now following in her footsteps.
Background
Fiona has dedicated over 14 years to childcare and residential support, progressing from Residential Support Worker to Senior, and now to Deputy Manager. Her role involves:
- Supporting young people and staff
- Leading and managing home operations
- Conducting care plans, risk assessments, supervisions, probation reviews, and PDRs
- Managing payroll and petty cash
- Working alongside the Registered Manager to ensure high‑quality residential care
Despite her strong background, stepping into leadership brought new pressures and the need for enhanced confidence in decision‑making.
The Challenge
Transitioning into a senior leadership role meant greater responsibility—and with it came natural self‑doubt.
“I felt that I wasn’t as confident as I could be in my role and in my decision making.”
Although her manager reassured her that her performance was strong, Fiona recognised the need to build her personal confidence to excel fully in her position.
Why She Chose RT Resources
Fiona needed to complete her SCQF 9 for SSSC requirements, and her employer has a long standing relationship with RT Resources.
Her goals were clear:
- Strengthen her leadership and management knowledge
- Build confidence in her professional judgement
- Enhance her ability to make informed, reflective decisions
The straightforward induction process and rapid onboarding made it easy to get started.
Learning Experience
From the beginning, Fiona found RT Resources’ support invaluable.
Smooth, Supported Start
- Quick and simple induction
- Clear explanation of the SVQ process
- Flexible assessor support via Teams
Dedicated and Flexible Assessor Support
This was the standout element of Fiona’s experience.
“My assessor was supportive and made herself available at times which suited me and my workplace.”
To accommodate Fiona’s busy residential environment, her assessor:
- Adapted observation schedules to suit shift patterns
- Responded quickly to emails and support requests
- Offered alternative evidence‑submission methods, including recordings
- Provided constructive, helpful feedback with clear expectations
This flexibility ensured assessments didn’t disrupt staff or young people, allowing Fiona to remain mindful of their wellbeing.
The Results
The impact of the MA was immediate and significant.
Increased Confidence
“I feel more confident in my role and in my decision making.”
Fiona also received extremely positive verification feedback from the SQA, further boosting her self-belief.
Greater Reflective Practice
She now feels more capable of analysing her responses and approaches in real‑world situations.
“Since completing the MA I feel that I am able to better reflect on my practice and my approaches.”
Positive Change Recognised by Her Manager
Her manager has noticed clear growth in her confidence and willingness to try new things.
Enhanced Time Management and Prioritisation
Fiona now approaches daily responsibilities with more structure and clarity.
Looking Ahead
The MA has shaped Fiona into a more decisive, reflective leader—qualities she now uses to mentor the next generation.
“I am currently supporting our Senior Residential Support Worker who has just started… We also have another two staff members starting their SCQF 7 CYP with RT Resources.”
Her strong recommendation highlights the consistent support and streamlined processes she experienced.
Conclusion
Fiona’s journey demonstrates how the Children and Young People SCQF 9 MA delivered by RT Resources can empower new leaders to grow in confidence, strengthen their practice, and positively influence the teams they manage.
From flexible support to high‑quality feedback, Fiona’s experience shows how RT Resources helps candidates succeed—both in their qualification and in their careers.
You can find out more about our qualifications in Children & Young People here, or for more information please contact us.
