Back to stories listingPGCE Secondary Biology student Lauren explains how her previous career and life experience have been incredibly valuable in helping her become the teacher she is today.
“Choosing University of Gloucestershire (UoG) for my Secondary PGCE with a Biology specialism was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I was fortunate enough to receive offers from two PGCE providers, but from my very first interview with UoG, it was clear that this was a genuinely supportive, encouraging and student-centered environment where people truly wanted you to succeed.”
Lauren’s background
“My background before teaching was in Equestrian and Human Sport Science, including completing an MRes in Equestrian Performance. Initially, I wasn’t entirely sure whether my background would be considered the right fit for teaching Biology, but during my interview I was immediately reassured that my experience and passion for science were valuable and transferable. From that point onwards, I have never looked back. The course team recognised the strengths I already had and helped me confidently apply them to teaching in a way that felt natural and purposeful.
I had thought about teaching for years, and my only regret is not doing it sooner. However, my previous career and life experience have actually been incredibly valuable in helping me become the teacher I am today. I would encourage anyone considering teaching not to be put off by age or by feeling as though they are taking a less traditional route into the profession. The experience you bring with you is recognised, valued and nurtured throughout the course.
I had always known that teaching was the right career for me, but I was naturally nervous at the start of the course and lacked confidence in some of my rusty subject knowledge. The support from the university was exceptional from day one. The team nurtured the knowledge and experience I already had and helped me build confidence incredibly quickly. Their passion for education, particularly making science enjoyable and engaging for students, completely aligns with my own values as a teacher.”
Why UoG?
UoG has a proud teaching heritage dating back to 1847, when it began as the Cheltenham Training College, and Francis Close Hall remains one of the oldest teacher training sites in England. That history and passion for education is still very evident throughout the course today.
One thing that stood out to me immediately was how manageable and well-structured the course felt. It genuinely never feels like you are simply trying to survive endless university assignments. It is very clear that a huge amount of time and effort has gone into designing the university workload carefully, with manageable assessment points that support your development without overwhelming you. This allows you to focus your energy where it matters most – developing your teaching practice, building relationships with students and growing in confidence within the classroom.
The ITAP experiences, placements, academic support and university sessions all linked together brilliantly, allowing me to grow rapidly as a teacher. My placements were carefully supported, and throughout the course it always felt as though our best interests were at the centre of every decision. The tutors consistently went above and beyond to support us, not only academically and professionally, but personally too. Whether it was advice during placements, reassurance during difficult moments or guidance and encouragement with careers and applications, the support never stopped. I always felt genuinely cared for as an individual, rather than just another student on the course.
The university also has an excellent track record of students successfully securing teaching jobs after completing the course, and it is easy to see why. The level of preparation, support and classroom experience you receive means you leave the course feeling genuinely ready for teaching. One of the biggest indicators of how well the course prepared me was securing a teaching position at my dream school in January during the PGCE year itself. I truly believe the confidence, classroom experience and professional guidance I gained through the course gave me such a strong start to my teaching career.
In particular, Hayley, Russ and Phil have been instrumental throughout my journey. Their kindness, reassurance, expertise and honest advice helped me through moments where I doubted myself, and they consistently encouraged me to see the potential in my teaching long before I could see it myself. Even when I lacked confidence in my subject knowledge, they supported and advised me in a way that rebuilt my confidence and reminded me why I wanted to teach in the first place.
I am incredibly thankful for the support I received throughout the year. UoG gave me far more than a PGCE qualification, it gave me confidence, encouragement, lifelong mentors and the foundations for a career that I am genuinely excited and passionate about.”
Discover more
Read more about Lauren’s course, PGCE Secondary Biology, or discover more about our other PGCE Secondary courses. You can also sign up for teacher training updates.