Bethan is a graduate from the PGDE Secondary Education: English programme at the University of Strathclyde

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I was educated in the comprehensive system in Falkirk Council and have been interested in becoming a teacher from a very young age. I initially pursued a combined honours degree in Music and English at the University of Glasgow, eventually dropping the Music part and studying English full time.

What drew you towards undertaking this degree?

I have known since I was in sixth year at school that I wanted to become an English teacher so taking this degree was the obvious path to achieve that. I had heard from my own teachers that Strathclyde was an exceptional seat of learning to undertake a PGDE and after having spent my undergrad at the University of Glasgow, I decided that a change in scenery would be nice to experience another university.

Tell us about the format of the programme...

The programme is split up into different blocks of teaching at the university and placements out in school. That’s what is so wonderful about this course is that no week looks the same!

During the time on campus, you would be attending lectures for your particular classes which focus on Professional Practice, Curriculum & Pedagogy, Professional Learning Through Enquiry and Educational Studies & Professional Values. You would also attend seminars for these classes which provide a varied and wide-ranging suite of activities to explore all theoretical aspects of the job. You might also be working on assignments for these particular classes so likely taking some time for personal study.

A week on placement would look very different depending on what stage of the course you are at. The level of observation of classes you would be undertaking would depend on how much teaching responsibility you’ve been given at any one time. Generally speaking though, a week on placement looks like planning lessons, having mentor meetings, observing other teachers, attending CLPL events in your particular school, liaising with other staff members but most importantly, teaching. Fundamentally, success on placement depends on building relationships with learners and this is by far the most rewarding and fun part of a week on placement – interacting with the young people and cementing yourself as a positive presence in their life.

Tell us a little bit about your experience on placement...

My experience on placement was overwhelmingly positive. I was well-supported by my mentors and faculty members across both placements and thoroughly enjoyed the classes I was given to teach. I feel I adapted to the workload aspect of it fairly quickly and was producing lessons I felt genuinely proud of.

What is the academic support at Strathclyde like?

The academic support at Strathclyde is second-to-none. The staff are incredibly helpful and always make you feel you are a priority if ever you need advice or guidance. I cannot fault them at all.

What are the facilities at Strathclyde like?

The facilities at Strathclyde are state of the art to say the least. The library is brilliant, the sports facilities are cutting edge and incredibly accessible at any time and the union building fulfils so many purposes so well. It’s a great place to chat to other students, grab something to eat, socialise but also study and attend classes.

Where are you working now?

I am now a few months into my probation year teaching English in North Lanarkshire Council. Although adjusting to the reality of the job has been a steep learning curve, I do feel Strathclyde prepared me exceptionally well for heading out into the workplace full time.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this course?

Absolutely go for it! Strathclyde is a wonderful place to study full of exceptional and supportive people. It is, in my opinion, the best place to begin your career in teaching.