Bethan
Burroughes

The BA (Hons) Education course has been replaced with BA (Hons) Education Studies.

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study BA (Hons) Education?

"I was inspired to study education and pursue a career in teaching during lockdown. I spent a lot of my time helping my younger brother with his schoolwork. This experience was very rewarding, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in education."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I decided to study at NTU as the University had a friendly feel when I visited and there was a positive energy amongst the students and staff."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? 

"So far the course has involved much more than I imagined. I have gained a whole new perspective on education and spend a lot of my time reflecting on my own education. A highlight of the course has been the Year One module, ‘Learning in the Outdoors’. This module involved a lot of group work and outdoor learning which helped us get to know each other on the course. It was a good introduction to the types of things we would be doing throughout the degree."

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"I had the opportunity over summer to take part in the Excellent Mandarin Programme with the I-Shou University in Taiwan. The scholarship was a 3-month programme that involved learning Mandarin Chinese and volunteering to help local children and other students with their English proficiency. The experience helped me to gain a lot of confidence and gave me an insight into other countries education systems as well as teaching EAL students. I felt I was able to take part in this opportunity due to the support and encouragement of the lecturers on my course."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course? 

"My placement was in a year five class at a primary school in Nottinghamshire for six weeks. NTU has a number of partner schools, which allowed me to secure this. My placement taught me what a day looks like for a teacher. I was able to collaborate with many teachers during this time and was given very useful advice."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"My last day of placement was the most memorable. Speaking to the children I had helped to teach was very rewarding and I was able to see I how much my support meant to them."

Support

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"I feel supported by the NTU staff and always know they are available to help. They have guided me in many ways and encouraged me to push myself."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

"I was able to make friends quickly on my course. The modules we took in the first term allowed us to break the ice and encouragement from tutors helped us to step out of our comfort zones in the new environment."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU? 

"I have secured my place on the School Direct PGCE course at NTU next year and look forward to more experiences in schools and at NTU. Once I have my qualification I hope to teach in primary schools and perhaps teach abroad."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals? 

"NTU offers a range of activities and support through the employability team. I signed up to an employability event to help me get started with my application for my PGCE and was given support when it came to writing my personal statement."

Advice

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

"I would advise students considering the education course at NTU to reflect on your experience in education so far and think about what you want to get out of your university experience. If you choose to study at NTU, I would encourage you to meet as many people as possible in the first year of university. I hope you find the university as friendly and supportive as I have!"