Lee
Fowler

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

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study BA (Hons) Education?

"Having already worked for eight years as a teaching assistant prior to my education degree within the UK and internationally, I already had a strong passion for teaching and learning. Watching the children’s progression made me realise that I had hit a plateau in my career which gave me the motivation into improving my own personal development."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"The reason that I selected the BA in Education was that I felt it would give me a chance to view education from a different perspective and allow me to contextualise my working knowledge. With my sister and fiancée graduating from NTU in the past, they always praised it highly which also contributed to my decision. Also, being Nottingham born and living locally to the University, it was always going to be my number 1 choice."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far? Can you pick out any highlights? 

"I have really enjoyed the challenge. My favourite module was Enhancing motivation through the Arts, but I would say the highlight of the course was getting the opportunity to make new lifelong friends."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social sciences to me means inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to go out there full of confidence and fulfil their dreams."

Have you completed any work placements on your course? 

"Within the second year of the course, you will be introduced to a module called Professional placement. This is a module that will give you an opportunity to work in schools and gain vital experience. For me, I arranged my own placement within a local special needs school, which although challenging helped improve my practices no end, particularly with behaviour management."

Support

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

"I do not have a bad word to say about the staff, I have nothing but respect for them. Throughout my time they have always gone out of their way to support me."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Very easy, it sounds cliché, but university friends are for life. Just remember that everyone is in the same boat, and you are all going on similar journeys so just put yourself out there."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU? 

"After completing my degree, I am looking to achieve Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) through either a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or School Centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT) program which upon completion will help me fulfil my dream of becoming a teacher in an international school."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals? 

"Having this degree under my belt will certainly unlock doors that weren't open before. This wouldn’t have been possible without studying at NTU which has further driven me to go and fulfil my aspirations."

Advice

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

"This course is great if you have never worked in education before as it gives you the foundation and a deeper knowledge of what to expect if you were to pursue a career within the field. My top tip for working on the assignments would be not leave them to the last minute, reference as you go and if unsure on anything, contact your teachers. The staff here are brilliant and will help you every step of the way."