A Journey Through English to Maths for University of Bolton PGCE Student

Henna Khan's journey into education began with an unexpected turn of events. While pursuing her 14+ (M) PGCE in English and ESOL at the University of Bolton, Greater Manchester, she found herself drawn to mathematics. What started as just an interest, evolved into a purposeful career path leading her to a fulfilling role as a Functional Skills Maths Lecturer at Burnley College.

Attracted by the University of Bolton's reputation for teaching excellence, Henna embarked on her PGCE journey with confidence. The decision to pursue this specific degree course was deeply rooted in her aspiration to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum's blend of theoretical knowledge and practical teaching experience provided her with a foundation for her future endeavours. Guided by experienced lecturers, she not only absorbed pedagogical theories but also delved deep into the practical aspects of classroom management, lesson planning and student engagement strategies.

The contributors to Henna's growth and development as an educator included;

• Curriculum Structure: The curriculum struck a delicate balance between theoretical insights and practical applications ensuring Henna's readiness for the complex demands of the modern classroom. Modules covering essential topics in English and ESOL education were complemented by hands-on teaching experiences allowing her to integrate theory with practice. 

• Faculty Expertise: Mentored by experienced lecturers with diverse backgrounds in education, Henna gained invaluable insights and guidance throughout her education. These mentors served as beacons of inspiration offering not only academic support but also mentorship in navigating the intricacies of the teaching profession. 

• Hands-on Experiences: The PGCE course at the University of Bolton offered numerous opportunities for hands-on experiences including teaching placements and online practical experiences. These experiences served as a foundation for Henna's growth enabling her to apply theoretical concepts learned in the classroom to real-life teaching situations. From designing lesson plans to delivering engaging classroom activities, each experience enriched her teaching practice and bolstered her confidence in her abilities as an educator. 

• Placements: The placements provided as part of the course were particularly impactful exposing Henna to a diverse range of educational settings. Whether working with students at Burnley College or Bolton Girls Islamic School, she embraced the opportunity to engage with learners from different cultural backgrounds, abilities and learning styles. These placements not only broadened her understanding of inclusive teaching practices but also deepened her empathy and appreciation for the unique challenges faced by students in today's educational landscape.

• Opportunities for Future Employment: The PGCE course also offered promising pathways for future employment thanks to its strong links to local schools and educational institutions. The university's dedicated careers service provided invaluable support and guidance in navigating the job market equipping Henna with the tools and confidence to embark on her professional journey as an educator. 

Through this support, Henna went on to secure employment as a Functional Skills Maths Lecturer at Burnley College while pursuing her PGCE. This opportunity not only validated the quality of education provided by the University of Bolton but also allowed Henna to apply her knowledge and skills directly in a professional setting. As she stepped into her role as a lecturer, she found herself uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Despite the opportunities afforded by her PGCE journey, Henna encountered her fair share of challenges along the way. One notable challenge was navigating the complexities of classroom dynamics and addressing the diverse needs of her students effectively. Initially, she found it daunting to engage all students and ensure that everyone was progressing at a suitable pace. As a result, she sought guidance from experienced educators, attended workshops on inclusive teaching practices and experimented with various strategies such as differentiated instruction and collaborative learning. Over time, she was able to use these new skills to develop her teaching approach and support every student, making them feel individually valued and empowered to succeed.

Throughout her PGCE journey, Henna was motivated by the support of her academic community at the University of Bolton. From dedicated lecturers to supportive peers and comprehensive support services, she found herself surrounded by a nurturing ecosystem that fostered growth and learning. The lecturers were not just educators but mentors and guides offering advice, constructive feedback and a listening ear whenever needed. Peers became collaborators and confidants, engaging in lively discussions sharing insights and pooling resources to support each other's academic endeavours. Together, they formed a close-knit community bound by a shared passion for education and a commitment to excellence.

As she looks toward the future, Henna is filled with a sense of optimism and purpose. Armed with a diverse skill set, a wealth of experiences and an unwavering passion for education, she stands poised to make a meaningful impact in the field of education.

To prospective students considering the PGCE degree course at the University of Bolton, Henna extends a heartfelt endorsement. From practical teaching experiences to industry partnerships and extracurricular activities, the PGCE journey at the University of Bolton promises to be a transformative experience.

To find out more about PGCE courses visit Courses | The University Of Bolton