Siena
Kissenpfennig

Why NTU

What inspired you to study your subject?

"I was inspired to study education as teaching children is very special to me as you get to watch them grow and blossom into great people. Furthermore, as an adult, I never forget those teachers that were influential and had a really positive impact on myself. The whole concept is really amazing. I would like to be that person who had a positive impact on a child’s education and life."

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

"My experience on the course so far has been great. I feel I’ve really developed my knowledge on education and reflected on my own as a practitioner. A highlight has been the ‘Outdoor Learning’ module in first term. This module had a lot of practical work, as well as branched my understanding of different ways children learn. I found it really helpful and fun."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience.

"I have completed one placement which was at Bulwell Forest Gardens. I was in a group with four other students where we had to created suitable activities for the gardens to use, this included a day of doing one activity with lots of children. It really allowed me to learn how to organise an activity efficiently as well as understand that not everyone has access to the same things. My most enjoyable memory was all the children being so excited and fascinated by our activity on the open day."

Support

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

"The support available at NTU is amazing. Tutors really help you settle in and they are very helpful when stuck on academic work. The staff are just as great, I found the student services centre was especially helpful in the first weeks with any admin issues. I always felt supported by tutors and teachers throughout my first year."

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"I feel it is easy to make friends in and out your course at NTU. Everyone is in the same boat, so everyone is looking for people to support them. This course was very helpful with this as they had lots of ice breakers and really encourage you to talk to different people in the first few weeks. Furthermore, the first-year subjects are all very hands-on and there is a lot of group work so it helps you build connections quickly."

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"After NTU I would like to go on to become a primary school teacher either locally to my home or abroad."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU has many opportunities to go on placements as well as a great support team through the Employability team. With lots of placements coming up next year, I’ve had loads of support from my lecturers on which direction to go."

Clearing

How did you secure a place on your course through clearing?

"To begin with, I called the clearing number for NTU and completed an application on the phone. I ended up having enough UCAS points to get an offer therefore I was sent an email with my offer immediately after the call. I found the whole process very easy and the NTU clearing staff were efficient."

What advice would you give to anyone applying through clearing?

"Make sure you apply for the course you want to do when going through clearing. Do not panic as it will be all okay."