Sarah Evans, PGCE: Design and Technology
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
Throughout my education I have always been enthusiastic about my subject of design, so when I had finished my degree it was important to me that I could find a job using the skills that I had acquired. I had also had experience of working with young people from a Youth Arts Scheme, which I thoroughly enjoyed so I made the decision to investigate the idea of teaching further. I also attended a TTA three-day taster course to ensure that I had made the right decision regarding my chosen subject and Key Stage.
Why did you decide to take a PGCE route into teaching?
Before deciding to take the PGCE course I was able to speak to a number of people who had taken different routes into teaching. From this feedback I was able to decide on the PGCE route as I felt that I was most suited to the combination of university-based work and school experience. A key advantage of the PGCE is that it allows you to gain experience but with the additional support network of your mentor and peers at university.
Why did you decide upon the University of Manchester?
I am originally from Greater Manchester and decided that I wanted to study in an area in which I intend to teach. I did some research into the courses available and decided that the University of Manchester most suited my needs. Studying at the University of Manchester also gives you added reassurance that you are graduating at a university that is highly regarded by schools, which in turn gives you confidence when applying for your first post.
What positive features are there about the PGCE at the University of Manchester?
Throughout my PGCE I have found the course to be extremely organised with a clear structure that is easy to follow. University based lectures provide good theoretical knowledge of education which in turn helps with confidence and understanding when entering school placements. A successful relationship between the university and placement schools also means that training and support continued throughout my placement. Good communication methods within the PGCE department also ensure that support is always available.
Throughout the course there is also opportunity to develop additional subject knowledge through group seminars and subject booster courses.
Why did you decide on D&T?
I decided to specialise in Design and Technology, as it is a subject that has always been of interest to me both in and out of my education. It is also a subject closely related to my degree, which has helped me with regards to my subject knowledge. Another advantage of teaching Design and Technology is that it is a subject thats constantly changing which I found allowed me to have a lot of input in the areas that you teach.
What has been your best experience on the PGCE D&T programme?
Throughout my PGCE I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching at each of my school placements and seeing the interaction that you get with pupils develop is great. However my time spent within the university with other trainees has been a great experience and you couldnt hope for a better support network to get you through the year.
What advice would you offer people thinking of studying a PGCE?
The PGCE is a fast paced year that does require a lot of hard work and dedication. My main advice would to be organised from the start of the course and believe people when they say that the time left will fly.
It is also important that you work together with the other people out on the course, as you will find at some stage that you require their support.
Finally, there will be occasions through the course where you do feel tired and fed up, but these days do pass and it does all start to seem worth it again.
What are your future plans for teaching (e.g. promotion, work abroad, MA)?
My immediate plan is to find my first teaching post that I feel will be suitable to stay for the start of my teaching career. I also intend on continuing to study part-time for an MA in Education at the University of Manchester.