Lucy
Canlin

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study your subject?

"I have always loved English and enjoyed the lessons at school and sixth form so wanted to continue this at University. I also wanted to study towards a career that means I can make a difference, so being a teacher is the perfect path."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I was always sure that I wanted to be an English teacher and this course is the perfect way of taking a direct route into the career. It allowed me to hugely expand my subject knowledge in the first year, improving it further in the second year alongside acquiring relevant teaching knowledge and theories in the education modules.

I also chose this course as the third year combines my cohort with the PGCE students and I will complete the degree with joint honours in three years, rather than the traditional route of completing a three-year English degree and then continuing for another year on the PGCE course. There are also various placement opportunities throughout the three years, so by the time the PGCE year arrives, I will already have lots of experience in schools and applying the content learnt in University sessions to the classroom.

I chose NTU as it is close to home, but also after hearing various glowing reviews from people I knew had come here in years prior who noted the wonderful teaching and support they received, alongside the great social life and opportunities. It is also one of the few universities that offer the combined course which made it stand out even more for me."

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

"My experience on the course so far has been wonderful. I have made lots of new friends and had lots of support from both English and Education specialists, helping me to learn as best as I can with the most confidence in my abilities. The second-year education modules and my sixty-hour placement have been my highlights; the modules have really got me excited for my teaching career and my placement solidified this excitement. My top highlight however would be teaching my first ever solo lesson for a GCSE class. This was a really proud moment and is something I will always remember from my University experience."

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

"I am the representative and ambassador for the English and Secondary Education course so I have organised meetings with my peers to discuss the course and their feelings towards it. I have also worked at the NTU open days to represent the course."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social sciences to me is a means of making a difference, changing lives and playing a part in bettering someone’s future."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"I have completed two placements on my course in two different secondary schools in Nottinghamshire. During these placements, I gained a lot of classroom experience and became much more confident in the school setting.

My first placement was in year one and was a shadowing placement which was great in allowing me to observe teaching throughout the school and pick up on different methods that I will take into my own teaching career.

The second placement was in year two during which my time there was structured around my online portfolio tasks for my assessment. I also taught two GCSE lessons on my own and learned lots of valuable communication, observation and teaching skills that will prepare me well for year three.

I have thoroughly enjoyed these placements and loved spending time in the classroom and being able to teach myself; it gave me a real insight into what it will be like when I qualify."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"As previously mentioned, the most memorable moment from my placement would be teaching my first lesson, but another lovely moment was on my last day, when the English department bought me a bottle of Prosecco and wrote me a card noting how well they thought I had done on placement and how they feel I will be an excellent teacher. This was such a nice moment and really gave me confidence in myself and my teaching abilities."

Support

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

"The support here is second to none. Emails and queries will always be answered quickly and effectively and no one makes you feel like any question or request is too much. It really does make a difference to the overall experience at university."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"I did find it easy to make friends at NTU. The atmosphere is really positive around campus and there are loads of friendly faces. My cohort is also quite small so we have all become really close and supportive of each other, which makes going into University even better as you know you have a group of friends to support you. I also found it really easy to settle in. Even though I live at home and not on campus the whole feel of the campus was like a home away from home and everything just fell into place. I felt so comfortable and accepted there straight away."

The Next Steps

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"After NTU I am hoping to get a job in a secondary school as a full-time English teacher.

The education modules and placements are helping me hugely to achieve my career goals. The placements open up a lot of doors for possible employment after graduating and the modules are constantly supporting us to improve our knowledge and skills, preparing us entirely for a full-time teaching career."

Advice

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

"I would say go for it! If you are truly passionate about teaching and making a difference and want to be supported and encouraged throughout your studies, NTU is the place to go. I would also say to make the most of the placement opportunities. It can be daunting but they are so valuable and make such a difference to your confidence and classroom understanding."