After experiencing life as a teaching assistant and working with older students at a local college, Phoebe Davis wanted to take the next step. She enrolled on a PGCE Further Education and Skills course at Sheffield Hallam and secured a job on the back of a placement.

“I chose to study at Sheffield Hallam University due to the good reputation of the University and its location.

“I’m extremely passionate about sport – more specifically, encouraging young females into a range of sports to enable them to develop both personally and professionally. As a post-16 sports tutor, I’m able to be a role model for my learners and can combine my passion for education with sports to create a positive environment.

“For me, the best thing about post-16 education is the freedom and flexibility that comes with it. As a tutor, it’s important that I create a positive learning environment that my students thrive in.

“I learnt a great deal on the course and was able to develop both personally and professionally. We utilised a range of technology for different learning methods and I was able to implement these into my practice to become a more effective teacher. This also enhanced the learner experience as they were naturally more engaged throughout my lessons.

“I also enjoyed learning and being in university with a range of different trainee teachers, specialising in different subjects. We had a great group and soon became friends, often arranging days out or events which was good fun!

“During my placements, I had support from my academic advisor at university and my mentor within my placement. Being observed by both of them really helped me to develop and I was able to implement their feedback into my practice moving forward. This support was extremely valuable and without it, I wouldn’t be where I am now.

“Experiencing two different types of placements in two different environments was also really useful, and helped me to realise where I wanted to work going forward. Following a successful placement, I secured a rewarding full-time teaching position which was due to the content I had learned and mastered throughout my PGCE.

Right now, I am happy in my current role and enjoy what I do. But in the future, I’d like to progress to a curriculum lead or education manager within a college or community setting.

If I was advising someone considering this route, I’d say the course is great and will really help you develop as a teacher. But be sure to stay organised and on track. You have lots to manage in terms of teaching responsibilities and university assessments so it is vital that you are organised and have the time to commit to the course to be successful."