BA Primary Teacher Education
My aspiration has always been to become a primary school teacher,
and Oxford Brookes' Primary Teaching course consistently received high praise. After attending an Open Day, I was immediately impressed by the programme's comprehensive structure. A particularly appealing aspect was the well-balanced ratio of practical placements to theoretical lectures. The lectures were clearly designed to equip us with the necessary skills for success in real-world teaching environments. I also appreciated the emphasis on assignments and assessed placements, rather than traditional exams.
The course has been a thoroughly enriching experience,
with several modules standing out. ‘Broader Curriculum’ was particularly engaging, offering practical activities directly applicable to classroom settings. ‘Childhood Development and Learning’ provided valuable insights into the holistic development of children, encompassing both physical and academic growth. The tutors are exceptionally supportive and approachable. They genuinely care about their students, providing both academic and emotional guidance. They are readily available to respond to queries and offer personalised assistance with assignments and placements.
My advice to prospective students is to leverage the expertise of the faculty.
University is a collaborative journey, and seeking guidance is essential. The professionals are there to support your success. When preparing for placements, gather as much information about the school as possible, and familiarise yourself with the commute. Building strong relationships with school staff is crucial, as it fosters a supportive network for advice and encouragement. Initially, I found the transition to academic writing challenging. However, the constructive feedback provided on early assignments significantly accelerated my progress. It's important to remember that everyone encounters challenges, and seeking help from mentors and tutors is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are never alone in this process.
The placement component of the course has been invaluable
in developing my practical teaching skills. While lectures provide a strong theoretical foundation, nothing compares to the experience of teaching in a real classroom. Placements, though demanding, are incredibly rewarding. They offer opportunities to observe and collaborate with experienced professionals, receiving insightful feedback that directly contributes to personal growth. One of the most significant lessons I've learned is the crucial role of classroom management – subject knowledge alone is insufficient without effective management skills, which are best developed through hands-on experience. These experiences have significantly boosted my confidence and effectiveness as a teacher, reinforcing my passion for the subject.
A key advantage of this course is the dedicated support provided in the final year for job applications.
My immediate plan is to transition directly into my Early Career Teacher (ECT) years, and I am eagerly anticipating this next chapter.