A Master’s degree helps professional take next step in career and confidence
THE UNIVERSITY of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has praised the achievement of postgraduate student Yutara Naidoo after she successfully completed a Master of Arts in Coaching and Mentoring through the university’s Professional Practice Framework.
Yutara chose to pursue the qualification after completing a coaching practitioner course with The Coaching Centre in South Africa. By using the university’s Recognition and Accreditation of Learning (RAL) module, she was able to build on the professional experience and practical knowledge she had already gained in the workplace.
Describing the opportunity, Yutara said the programme allowed her to develop academically while continuing to work full time. “It was a great way to further enhance my knowledge in a field I enjoy so much, while also elevating my academic qualifications,” she said.
She explained that the course placed strong emphasis on recognising real-world experience, allowing her to reflect deeply on her coaching practice and future career direction.
“Coaching is a very practical skill,” she said. “The programme gave me the space to reflect on how I work and how I want to take my coaching forward.”
As part of the degree, Yutara completed a work-based research project within her own organisation, exploring employees’ experiences of coaching in the workplace.
“This was something the organisation was curious about, as there had been no formal framework in place,” she said, adding that the research provided valuable insights for both herself and her employer.
Yutara described the qualification as “life-changing”, saying it had boosted her confidence and opened up new possibilities.
“It was one of the most challenging experiences I’ve faced, balancing a full-time job with the demands of a Master’s degree,” she said. “I wasn’t sure I had it in me to complete it, but finishing the course has been a total game-changer. It’s made me braver and more confident about considering new life and work opportunities, including coaching as a full-time career.”
She also highlighted how the course helped her develop academic skills she previously felt unsure about, particularly reflective practice and research, with support from her tutors playing a key role.
Now a strong advocate for work-based learning, Yutara encourages others to recognise the value of the learning gained through their careers.
“We often underestimate how much we learn through our jobs and practical experience,” she said. “This is where real, meaningful learning happens, and now there’s an opportunity for it to be formally recognised.”
Staff at UWTSD praised Yutara’s dedication and achievements. Sarah Loxdale, Senior Lecturer and lead for the Recognition and Accreditation of Learning module, said her journey highlighted the value of experiential learning.
“Yutara brought a wealth of professional insight to the programme and fully embraced the reflective and academic challenges,” she said. “Her success shows what’s possible when learners trust their own experience and capabilities.”
Lowri Harris, Senior Lecturer and project supervisor, added: “Yutara approached her research with curiosity, resilience and a genuine desire to make a difference. It has been inspiring to see her grow in confidence, and her achievement is thoroughly deserved.”
UWTSD says Yutara’s success demonstrates how professional practice programmes can support career development, build confidence and create new opportunities for learners across Wales and beyond.
