What is it really like studying at the University of Cumbria? Here's what our undergraduate and PGCE students thought about their time studying Education here at the university.
"It’s daunting coming back to uni as a mature student. You think “can I cope? Am I past it?” But there is a lot of support on the course. I wasn’t past it. I shouldn’t have worried. My family also benefited as I was happy and my partner even said I had my mojo back!"
Chantel du Randt took the leap and embarked on a PGCE to change careers. In this quick interview, she tells us her story and how she managed to balance family life and study to achieve her ultimate goal of becoming a teacher.
"I wanted the ability to look back in 50 years and be proud of my career, its accomplishments and the difference I have made. I know now that I have made the right decision."
Steafan Deery was a PE specialist with the Irish Football Association who retrained to become a teacher. In this quick interview, he tells us why he decided to get into teaching and why the University of Cumbria was the right choice for him.
Debbie, a career changer, shares her inspiring story of transitioning from a successful hotel management role to becoming a teacher. Debbie discusses her initial love for teaching, the desire to make a positive impact, and the challenges she faced during her teacher training journey. She highlights the importance of her supportive tutors, valuable placement experiences, and offers practical advice for aspiring teachers. She expresses her enthusiasm towards helping children grow and learn.
After teaching children in Hong Kong for 7 years, Annie joined us to continue her teaching career in the UK. Keep reading to hear about her experience of our PGCE programme as an international student, including the bespoke support we offer at the University of Cumbria.
Current PGCE student, Shannon, had already completed 2 undergraduate degrees when she joined us. She chose to join Cumbria's acclaimed PGCE programme after chatting to our friendly academic team and loved that she could complete her final placement from her home in Northern Ireland. Keep reading to hear more about her Teacher Training journey.
Andrew, originally from Southport, chose the University of Cumbria because of its long history of successful teacher training. He describes himself as passionate about education and regards RE as central to holistic development of young people.
"I did this course as part of my SCITT training. I felt it would provide additional academic background to my very practical course. If you do choose to do this course, best of luck with it. I found it brilliant. "
Nick, a career changer, shares his story of transitioning from a self-employed joiner and roofer to becoming a teacher. Nick discusses how he found his love for teaching, the desire to make a positive impact, and the challenges he has faced during his career transition. He highlights the importance of accessible learning at Cumbria, the support he has received from tutors, and his plans for the future.
Ruth, a career changer, shares how working as a Teaching Assistant inspired her to train to teach. Ruth discusses how she found her love for teaching and passion for Outdoor Education, what she enjoys most about the PGCE course, and her plans for the future.
Nathan, a career changer from the North of Ireland, shares his teacher training journey. Nathan discusses how he found his love for teaching and passion for working with children with special educational needs, as well as his plans for the future.