Tell us a little bit about yourself and what originally brought you to Strathclyde…
I had been on a journey since I left school and had previously studied at another Glasgow institute but the course did not fit me. After travelling and exploring hobbies with a desire to teach from a young age, Strathclyde encapsulated all of that.
What drew you towards your chosen degree?
I wanted to be a teacher and be as hands on with learning as possible as this is the best way I learn. I researched extensively into various courses that would be engaging for me to stay focused and allow me to work simultaneously. I completed a 2 year HND in fashion and textiles as this is my passion and Strathclyde offered the connecting course of the BSc curricular studies with home economics and teaching qualification. So my end goal through my HND was to get into Strathclyde.
What specialist knowledge/professional skills did you develop whilst studying the course?
I learned to academically articulate myself through communication, research and written work which I feel made my time at the university so successful. Professional organisation and resource management.
What was the best part of studying the BSc Education & Curricular Studies programme?
The small cohort, structure of course content and teaching staff all combined create an experience that felt supported. The bond between our peer group and that extended to staff, the connections made to the wider network of our subject home economics which we wouldn't have had without the organisation of the university. Placement for an immersion week in third year and ALC were pivotal in my experience of achieving a first class.
Where are you working now and what are your hopes for the future?
I am now on probation in St Aidan's high school which has practical cookery, HFT and fashion technology. A Roman catholic school with incredible school ethos and an extremely hands on SLT. My hopes for the future would be to retain a full-time job there and be more involved within wider school roles such as pastoral care or SLT one day.
What advice would you give to prospective students interested in applying for this programme?
Be prepared to work hard and be pushed but the pace and content is all for the benefit of standing strong entering probation year. Everything on the course links to aid one another, whether that connection be making the transition from third to fourth year smoother. Pay attention to academic literacy and communication, its the fundamentals to our future career. Ask big questions and say yes to things in university and on placement.
