Kieran is a graduate from the PGDE Secondary Education: Computing Science programme at the University of Strathclyde

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I am Kieran, I was born and raised in Dundee, and studied Ethical Hacking prior to becoming a Computing Teacher.

What drew you towards undertaking this degree?

During the second year of my undergraduate studies (whilst in lockdown), I was contemplating what I wanted to do with my life, career-wise. I realised that the majority of industry-based jobs would involve moving further afield, or either WFH/hybrid working, neither of which I wanted to do. Then, during lockdown, I was watching the Educating Yorkshire series on TV and seen the way that the teachers interacted with their learners, and it made me appreciate that having a purpose and making an impact on the lives of others would give me more satisfaction than simply waiting for a payslip each month. There was also an element of nostalgia, as this series reminded me of the positive relationships I had with my own teachers. It was a no-brainer for me.

Tell us about the format of the programme. What was a typical week like?

A typical week is one that is busy, but equally enjoyable. Throughout the PGDE, we studied 3 modules in a week, Education Studies; Professional Values (ESPV), Professional Learning Through Enquiry (PLTE) and Professional Skills, which is broken down into two sub-modules: Professional Practice, and Curriculum and Pedagogy. While this sounds like a lot, the learning was well-paced, and never did I feel overwhelmed with my learning.

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

I attended two different schools for my placement, both in my hometown of Dundee. My first placement was 8 weeks long, whereas my second placement was 10 weeks long. Placement enabled me to gain on-the-job experience of working as a teacher in a classroom, and I had the opportunity to put the theory I had learned at Strathclyde into practice. The schools were very different, meaning I was able to gain a broad understanding of how to meet the needs of a variety of learners. It was also nice to be working alongside some staff who were my own teachers back in the day!

What is the academic support at Strathclyde like?

Academic support at Strathclyde was fantastic. My tutor was only ever an email away, and was determined to make sure I was set up for success before going out on placement. The lecturers at Strathclyde were also very supportive, and happy to help in any way, shape and form.

What are the facilities at Strathclyde like?

The facilities at Strathclyde are wonderful. I particularly enjoyed making use of the vast library, and the learning and teaching building afforded me the space to socialise with my friends, and find a spot to study in-between classes.

Where are you working now?

One year on from completing my PGDE, I am proud to say that following a successful NQT year, I am now a fully qualified Computing Science Teacher working on a permanent basis in the school where I completed my second placement! Strathclyde helped me prepare by teaching me the skills and qualities required to be successful as a teacher.

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

I cannot recommend the PGDE at Strathclyde enough. The lecturers and tutors are fantastic, the facilities are brilliant, and I am so glad I selected this university to undertake my teacher training. It is a busy year, but there is lots of support to get you through. Teaching is the most rewarding job, and in my opinion, the best job on the planet.