Lucy Robin
Early Childhood Studies
1. Tell us about yourself
I’m a mum of seven, including twins, and I graduated from ARU in 2019 with a degree in Early Childhood Studies. Life is always full, but I try to embrace the busyness. Being neurodiverse means I often approach things differently, which has helped me find creative ways to face challenges.
In 2023, my life took a profound turn when one of my newborn twins suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at just 17 days old. Thanks to paediatric first aid training, I was able to save his life. That moment changed my direction completely and inspired me to focus on community health. I now work as Child Health Champions Lead, supporting a voluntary sector project by leading volunteers and managing the crèche facilities so parents can join training and activities knowing their children are cared for. Away from work, I enjoy swimming, walking, and reading.
2. What is your fondest memory of Anglia Ruskin University?
Visiting the resource centre and being asked to create something out of materials other students had thrown away. It was such a fun, hands-on task that encouraged us to recycle, reuse, and think creatively as a group. It still reminds me how much value there is in looking at things from a different perspective.
3. What has been your favourite job?
My current role as Child Health Champions Lead has been my favourite so far. I lead the volunteers within the project and manage the crèche facilities, which allows parents to take part in training and community activities knowing their children are cared for. Being part of a project that empowers communities with CPR and first aid knowledge, while tackling health inequalities, feels both humbling and inspiring. It’s also fun and rewarding – I enjoy delivering training, but equally I love seeing volunteers grow and progress in their own journeys. I also value the chance to pilot initiatives, reflect on what works well, and identify areas for improvement so that the project continues to make a real impact.
4. In one word, how would you describe Anglia Ruskin University?
Inspiring.
5. How did your time at ARU help you?
ARU gave me knowledge, tools, and confidence – but it also taught me to think outside the box. That skill has been invaluable both in safeguarding and now in community health, where there are rarely 'one-size-fits-all' solutions.
6. What did you love about your chosen course?
I loved learning about children’s rights around the world, and exploring safeguarding through interdisciplinary perspectives. It pushed me to see safeguarding not just as a rulebook but as something deeply connected to culture, advocacy, and the impact of bias on children’s lives. I learned how disadvantage and inequality shape life chances, and that knowledge continues to influence how I approach my work today.
7. What advice would you give to current students as they’re preparing to graduate?
Be open to opportunities – even the ones you didn’t expect. Some of the most rewarding moments in my career have come from paths I never imagined I’d take. Trust the skills you’ve gained, and don’t feel like you need to have it all figured out straight away.
8. What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst studying?
That lived experience is just as valuable as academic knowledge. At the time I didn’t realise how much my personal journey would strengthen my professional practice.
9. Who was the biggest influence on your career?
My children and my husband. They’ve shaped my choices, given me perspective, and inspired me to keep going even in the most challenging times.
10. What advice would you give your younger self?
Don’t be afraid to take up space. Your voice matters and your perspective is valuable.
11. Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
Most people don’t know that I learned to sail as a child and had passed all my sailing certificates by the age of 12. The sea has always been my most peaceful place, though I’ve learned to respect how unpredictable it can be. Once, while swimming in the Dominican Republic to fetch a coconut, I was pulled under by a wave. Staying calm kept me safe, and I’ve carried that lesson in resilience with me ever since.
12. What’s next?
I want to keep building on my current work – expanding community health projects, training more people in CPR, and continuing to amplify voices that often go unheard. My goal is to create ripple effects that last across families and generations. I would also love to help expand the current project into other areas, so even more communities can benefit from its impact.