Philippa Brentnall -Bachelor of Education
All the staff on the teaching team I met in my first week were all exceptionally friendly and very welcoming. This positive experience made me feel confident that Derby was the right learning environment for me
”Background
Whilst at school I had been interested in teaching and attended a placement in a primary school on a work experience basis.
However, when leaving school, I joined a local building society as I felt at that time I was best suited to a job dealing with people. I later decided to pursue a career in my original dream of being a primary school teacher. I contacted Derby University to find out how to apply for the B'Ed and was advised to contact Derby College for a place on the access to teaching course.
First Impressions
Although I was very pleased and proud to be starting at Derby University on the B'Ed course, I was also very worried about the work load with assignments, the lecturers and the thought of being the eldest on the course. However, after my first week at university I realised I shouldn't have been worrying so much. The age range of students varied from 18 to 45 and that was just in my group, everyone was so friendly and I quickly realised so many other students had children like me. All the staff on the teaching team I met in my first week were all exceptionally friendly and very welcoming. This positive experience made me feel confident that Derby was the right learning environment for me and that I would be able to succeed in the supportive environment. I know that if I have a problem or query all the staff are welcoming and approachable. It helps to know that emails are always responded to and you can knock on their door to speak to them when they are in their office.
Achievements on the course
Behaviour management was something I felt was a challenge for me. With support in workshops and a positive environment at Derby University I have felt my confidence grow and I am no longer worried about speaking in front of people both in workshops and in schools. During my placement in year two I was with a year 3,4,5 and 6 class. My mentor was very happy with the different behaviour strategies used and the use of voice in the classroom.
There are many opportunities on the course at Derby University to take part in other organised activity days in schools. I have been part of a Languages day and a Science Day, these have been a good way to develop confidence and also subject knowledge.
