Open University changed our family fortunes

STUDYING is now a family affair for Yvonne Quaintrell.

The mother-of-two, from Oldham, Greater Manchester, has gained a Masters in psychology from the Open University, after completing a degree in social sciences with psychology in 2010.

The 44-year-old was inspired to study by her father, Harry Letson, who gained an open degree — which is made up of modules from different degree subjects — from the Open University.

Then her husband, Dominic, gained a Masters in psychology from the OU.

Yvonne (pictured), a former teacher, is now a trainer and assessor on Bury College’s early years, teaching assistant and criminology foundation courses.

She says: ‘I wanted to study for a Masters because I became very interested in psychology. I was also looking to diversify what I could teach at work. I first did forensic psychology, which is how I got into teaching criminology.

‘I took one module to see what it was about and then got hooked on it. As part of my Masters, I did a post-graduate diploma in forensic psychology. ‘Doing my post-grad course definitely helped my career — it’s helped open doors. I only started studying on the criminology degree last year, and that’s directly related to having done the forensic psychology.’

Yvonne juggled her studies with work. ‘It is not easy, but I am a mo t i vated and structured person.

‘Open University is brilliant for me because I can fit it in around my work life. And doing a Masters helps you gain skills — especially writing and research. They are transferable into other fields.’