​Why did you choose Plymouth University?

Where it is was a big factor, only two hours away from my home and then only five minutes from the train station and the city centre, providing easy access to everything a student needs including bars, clubs and pubs! As well as the location, the faculty building (Rolle) is also brand new, providing fantastic facilities for us as student teachers to learn and gain an insight into what equipment and resources may be available to us once we are qualified.

What made you decide to undertake the course?

The main reason for my choice (BEd Primary Physical Education) was that the course offered me the chance to train as a general primary teacher as well as becoming a Physical Education specialist. This for me was perfect as I had always enjoyed teaching/coaching previous to university and love sports so combining the two produced the right course for me. Another reason was how the course was structured; this course allows you the opportunity to learn specifically about teaching all subjects and gain QTS.

What was your entry route onto the course?

I completed A-Levels at post 16, gaining three in Psychology, Sports studies and English literature, I then took a gap year and deferred my entry.

What were your expectations of the course, and do you feel that they are being met?

I expected the course to be fun, practical yet academic and also contain lots of opportunity to gain firsthand experience teaching in schools. I have enjoyed the first two years of my course having fun while learning and teaching, particularly in Physical Education where we have had to perform a gymnastics routine (to an audience!) and have spent a week away as a group on Dartmoor taking part in Outdoor and Adventurous Activities. Gaining experience in schools is definitely being met and in my opinion a real strength of this course. So far in two years I’ve taught school children from 6 different schools in both the city and the country.

What particular aspect(s) of your course are you enjoying?

I feel like the school experience is easily one of the most enjoyable aspects of the course. For me, after spending a great deal of energy researching and writing essays, it feels good to be able to put some of what you have learnt to the test in a real school environment. In addition to this I find school placement a lot of fun and working with a different group of children every time provides more than enough challenge to keep you thinking.

What advice would you give to somebody who was considering studying an education course?

Do not just look at one or two courses; look at a whole range of courses. Even if you don’t think a particular course would interest you, have a look anyway. By doing so you can get a good understanding of what is out there, helping you make a much better decision about the paths you can take into education.