Student Feedback

Fraser Webster, an MSc social work student from Stirling University, was on placement at MCFB in the Autumn of 2011:

“ When I was allocated MCFB for my first placement I wasn't really sure what to expect. Of course, I spent some time on this website trying to build up a better picture of what the agency actually did, and for whom.

However, I knew from my own life and work experience that it was often 'best' just to "wait and see", and to approach with an open mind.

The first thing that struck me was the wide range of activities undertaken by staff at the agency including direct work, group work, art therapy, play therapy and many more. I was impressed, yet also apprehensive, that I might be expected simply to "slot in" without any training or guidance.

Fortunately this was not the case. The induction period lasted for several weeks, and as well as introducing us to staff and to the various functions of the agency, it was also a useful way of getting to know the other students on placement.

After a few weeks my workload began to increase to a challenging but manageable level. I began working with children both in school, and in their own homes, often with parents. I was also given the chance to co-facilitate regular group work with children, together with qualified and experienced staff. At all stages I felt fully supported by my own practice teacher and also by the other staff at the agency. This made it easier to balance my duties and responsibilities at placement with the academic requirements made by my own university.

For me, the large number of students on placement at the MCFB was a real bonus. It made for a lively and interesting office, and was also useful in terms of comparing thoughts and ideas around social work theory and practice.

On the whole, I thoroughly enjoyed my time at MCFB. It was challenging and thought provoking, and also extremely rewarding both in terms of the work undertaken with the children and families, and in the sense that I had that I had developed and improved as a practitioner over the course of the 12 weeks. I would encourage anyone given the chance to join the agency on placement to grab it with both hands! ”

Ciara Webb, a student from Edinburgh University comments on her placement at MCFB:

“ The best thing about being a student at MCFB is the number of students here. We are all from different universities and at different stages of our courses, so there is a massive wealth of experience, knowledge and opinions. Got a question? Ask someone! One of the things I quickly accepted was that I am not supposed to know everything and that asking questions is not only normal, it is expected. MCFB works in conjunction with loads of other agencies and it is a good idea to take time at the beginning of the placement to introduce yourself and make your name known.

I am busier than I have ever been and I absolutely love it. MCFB appreciates there are academic responsibilities to fulfil as well and makes sure your caseload isn't so heavy that you don't have time to reflect and learn from your practice. I count myself so lucky to have a placement here. I have met so many people, both students and staff and if I had my way, I would be back here for my second placement. ”

Comments from Juliet Martin, social work student, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen

“ MCFB is an invaluable resource to both BME and white families. On a personal level, the agency has given me the opportunity to come into contact with different cultures, (both in racial terms and the diversity of university population), enriching my own knowledge and skills, and raising awareness of values and the possible impact on service user relationships. ”

Tony Igoe, a student at MCFB from Feb - June 2008 writes:

“ Having spent 5 years studying with the Open University I can honestly say, my time at MCFB has been my best experience so far. Working in an environment with other students has enhanced my knowledge and given me the opportunity to work with BME families. As this placement draws to an end, I am grateful to my Practice Teacher for her patience, and to all the other Practice Teachers for their sound advice, and their approachable and supportive manner. During my time at the BASE (as it's fondly known to students) I was fortunate to assist in the design, purchase and build of the new all-singing, dancing and better equipped student room, new desks, chairs and PCs for the future students. ENJOY!

As a mature student, and an experienced worker from a Secure Care setting, this placement has enhanced my knowledge and given me new experience in working with a client group from the voluntary sector. Yes, I have enjoyed this placement both for the learning it has offered me and the opportunity it has given me to work with children and families from different cultures.

Thank you MCFB ”

Graham Matuszak comments on his final placement:

“ When I first knew I would be at MCFB for my final practicum, I was a bit worried about it. I wasn't sure if the work would be varied and challenging enough to prepare me for working as a social worker. By the end of my practicum these fears had gone.

I was encouraged to practice creatively, thoughtfully and effectively. I had a varied caseload which included groupwork, individual work (1-1), work with families, and work with the Leith Social Work Centre on a statutory case. While I was able to put many of the social work theories learned at University into practice, I was also able to experiment with a number of new/alternative approaches, some being more successful than others!

The working environment within MCFB is very dynamic. Students and senior staff work side by side, encouraging regular discussion regarding social work values, skills, and practice.

Working on statutory as well as voluntary cases led me to realise that social work interventions should be rooted in basic philosophical and ethical principles. Social work is not solely about completing assessments and filling in forms.

My advice for future students at MCFB? View it as an opportunity to develop and grow as social work practitioners - experiment with interventions, challenge accepted social norms, build strong links with families, services users, other professionals and agencies, form friendships with your co-workers, be prepared to challenge your own and others values and beliefs, work hard, and perhaps as importantly, enjoy yourself! ”

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