Alan is a graduate from the PGDE Secondary Education: Psychology programme at the University of Strathclyde

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I was born and bred in Renfrewshire on the west coast of Scotland. I attended Johnstone High School, where I studied for Highers in English, Modern Studies, RMPS, Music, and Drama. From school, I enrolled in a Social Sciences degree at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), qualifying in 2015 with a single honours degree in Psychology. After working in the aviation sector for three years, I was accepted into the second-ever cohort of Psychology PGDE students at the University of Strathclyde. I graduated in 2018 and immediately began my teaching career.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

A former UWS lecturer, who now teaches at Strathclyde, actually suggested the PGDE in Psychology to me. I had previous experience working with children part-time at an extra-curricular stage school, but I hadn’t seriously considered a career in education. However, I trusted her judgment implicitly. The more I reflected on her question— “Have you not realised you’re meant to be a teacher yet?”—the more I realised she was right.

Did you have a favourite teacher when you were at school?

Mrs Harris, my Pastoral Care teacher, was by far my favourite. She embodies everything I strive to be as a teacher today: caring, nurturing, and firm but fair. She was truly passionate about seeing every pupil succeed.

Why did you select the University of Strathclyde?

I chose Strathclyde because they are pioneers in Psychology Education. The work they have done to grow the subject in Scotland is outstanding, and I was eager to be part of this positive step forward for the school curriculum.

What did you learn during your placements?

The biggest takeaway was how much schools have evolved in the eight years I had been away. I could see that pupils today face complex challenges that my generation didn’t have to contend with. However, in many ways, schools also feel safer now. For many young people, school is a sanctuary away from home life, and initiatives like Nurture groups and LGBT alliances make the community far more inclusive than what previous generations experienced.

What would be your advice for people considering taking the PGDE course at Strathclyde?

If your heart is set on it, go for it. If your motivation is to make a tangible difference in children’s lives and to inspire a love for your subject, then you are entering the profession for the right reasons.

Where are you working now and what is the best part of your job?

In a surreal turn of events, I was placed back at the high school I attended as a pupil. I actually teach in what used to be my S2 English classroom! While it was bizarre initially, my childhood memories have now been replaced by teaching memories.

Since qualifying, I have expanded my role beyond the classroom, holding positions as Principal Teacher of Pupil Support (Pastoral) and PT for 'The Promise.' My background as a Psychology teacher has been invaluable in these roles; having a deep understanding of trauma and high emotional intelligence allows me to support our most vulnerable young people effectively.

What did you think of the support available at Strathclyde?

My CCL sessions with the Psychology tutor, Jonathan Firth, provided all the guidance I needed. While I knew other support systems were in place across campus, the course staff were so helpful and accessible that I felt fully supported throughout.

Any final points, or words of wisdom?

Always remember your duty of care. You are a teacher of children first; the delivery of your subject comes second. Essentially, we act as the parent or guardian in their absence, and that responsibility is paramount.