Heidi
Benson-Loydall

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study BA (Hons) Primary Education (QTS)?

"I have always wanted to be a primary school teacher because I love working with children. I like that I get to influence the next generation and there is so much you can learn from them too! Teaching is such a rewarding job because you get to watch their progression. It’s so interesting getting to know about the children and adapting your teaching to their needs."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"NTU offered so many opportunities that other universities didn’t, which I thought would make me a better teacher by the end of the course. The campus is well equipped and has really good facilities, including teaching rooms that look like primary classrooms so you can really learn the subjects. I just really loved the feeling I had when I walked onto campus - it felt very homely and comfortable."

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

"I have really enjoyed my time on the course. It has been difficult at times, but it's been fun meeting new people, learning new skills and spending time on placement – which is definitely the best part!"

Social sciences

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social sciences involves working with a wide range of people to change the world in some way or another. In schools, this is working as part of a community that all have the same goal which is to inspire children and transform their thinking and understanding."

On placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course? 

"We have at least one placement every year, but this can be more. We get placed in a range of schools and settings, and therefore gain a wide variety of experiences. I have picked up so many different teaching techniques through my placements which I can carry forward with me throughout my career. You get the chance to apply everything that you have learned in university to your own professional practice and see what works for you and what doesn’t."

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"Placement is the best part of the course for me. I love meeting all the children and forming relationships with them. It also helps to get a feel for the career you have ahead of you."

Support

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

"There is so much support available at NTU. The lecturers on my course have an open door policy meaning you can go and chat to them when you need. There is also student services, as well as someone dedicated to our course who can help with any health or wellbeing concerns. In addition, we have academic support in the library and course-specific people who can help with assignment writing. You are assigned a personal tutor who moves through the course with you as a constant support. When on placement, you have an in-school mentor and a link tutor who guide and assess you through placement."

Outside the lecture theatre

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

"I found it easy to settle in at uni. We are mostly in seminar groups, so you make friends with the people there and we also have opportunities within the first term to get to know people better. I stayed on campus in first year, so also made friends that way too."

The next steps

What’s next for you after NTU? 

"After I have finished this course, I am considering studying a masters in education where I can further my own professional development. Once I have completed that, I hope to find a job as a teacher in a primary school."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals? 

"NTU offers a lot of support to help you find a job. We have specific lectures for application and interview support from our lecturers, as well as external teachers and ex-NTU students. They share their experiences and what schools are looking for."

Advice

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying Primary Education at NTU?

"I would encourage anyone to study the course here, as I have had such a good experience. I would say just take any opportunity that comes and make the most of it, as it will all help you develop professionally and make you a better teacher. Just get stuck in! There’s so much you can gain, and your confidence and skills will grow immensely."