Gurkirpa
Swali

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study BA (Hons) Primary Education?

"Leaving primary school, I always had a drive to become an educator.

Finishing my studies at secondary school and then teaching in primary school was the end goal - standing proudly in front of my class as a diverse male teacher, having the power to enhance the curriculum, and leaving children with an unforgettable learning experience.

Teaching for me is a rewarding career, supporting learning and wellbeing and you as a teacher have a responsibility to enlighten the child within."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"NTU provides students the opportunity not just to become teachers but to shine in their profession and be a leader!

The four year course has a variety of placement-based opportunities, both locally and internationally, gradually building a base knowledge approach while developing a professional portfolio.

Experiencing forest school learning, leadership opportunities and greater studies in SEND gives you all the tools you need for a future in the classroom!

The campus is very clean and accessible. There are local shops, places to walk and spacious study-based areas to meet all students' needs.

NTU was also highly rated with student satisfaction, and I heard loads of positive feedback about student support and support from lectures."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Vygotsky uses the phrase “The Knowledgeable Other” and we are that important knowledgeable other to scaffold children’s learning watching them thrive succeed, progress and most importantly see our children happy. For everyone working in social sciences, seeing the lightness of another person makes our day and career the best part of it."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"Walking out of my last day of placement, I was approached by a parent. They said, “Our child can’t stop talking about you when they are home. Your humour, character and they feel you’re the best person to talk to if they need anything”. I was grateful for this positive feedback and how I have made an impact. Being a teacher who is supportive and caring about a child's well-being, as well as teaching is important."

Support

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

"The lectures on the primary education course have so much depth of knowledge and experience in leadership, SEND and tailored subjects. They have all the tools to create an outstanding teacher.

The staff are extremely supportive and helpful. They’re always there any time for support, contactable through emails and have an open-door policy so we can see them anytime face to face. Any support with assignments and placement they are one email away and is extremely helpful to have that support when you are in a school-based placement for their advice."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After NTU I am hoping to further develop my professional career by taking on leadership roles in primary schools, while being a class teacher. I would also love to experience teaching in an international country and express my enthusiasm elsewhere."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU are supportive of my career goals and they promote guest speakers who are male to speak to male trainers about their experiences of teaching in primary school settings and give us advice. I feel as a male that is important as you feel assured in your practice."

Advice

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

"If you are passionate about teaching children and want to be a teacher, NTU is the right choice with the support and variety of opportunities offered. These opportunities will make you not just a teacher but an outstanding teacher, making you stand out from the crowd."