David is a graduate from the PGDE Modern Languages programme at the University of Strathclyde
Tell us a little bit about your background...
Prior to starting the course, I worked in a variety of positions in both hospitality and recruitment. Most recently managing national accounts in the healthcare recruitment sector.
What drew you towards undertaking the PGDE?
I decided several years ago to change to career. My love of language and culture led me to study my undergraduate degree in languages which then led naturally to the PGDE.
Tell us about the format of the programme. What was a typical working week like?
The course provided a strong theoretical framework on teaching pedagogy which could then be put into practice in each of the practice placements. A typical week would include day long sessions with a particular subject focus. The course also allowed subject specialist to collaborate on different aspects of professional development and enquiry. I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to learn from the experiences of others; being that from new graduates who have recently spent a considerable time in countries that speak French or Spanish, or from mature entrants to the course who brought such a wide range of personal and professional experiences.
Tell us about your experience on placement...
I was very lucky to have such amazing support on my placements. The staff teams in both schools went out of their way to help me develop my skills as a teacher which gave me the best grounding to support the pupil groups in my care. I had the opportunity to be involved in a variety of additional activities on placement including school discos, sport days and extracurricular clubs. These activities gave me a better opportunity to engage with the pupils in the school and understand more about the community dynamics which led to me becoming a better teacher.
What was the academic support at Strathclyde like?
My subject specific tutor was amazing. She made our experience throughout the PGDE as stress free as possible, given the high level of intensity that exists on the course. No query was too small, and it is due to her support that as a group we achieved what we did throughout the PGDE.
Where are you working now?
Smithycroft Secondary School, Glasgow.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the PGDE?
The PGDE is hard but rewarding work. You will have the opportunity to work with amazing groups of kids that are looking to you for support and guidance. Being organised is key to being successful on the PGDE. You can fit everything into your life if you ensure that you understand your limits. You will be successful with the support of your tutor but more importantly your family and friends. Your support network will allow you to be the best you can be. The best piece of advice I received was to celebrate the small victories either at university or in school and enjoy them. Without your drive and love of teaching the pupils you work with will not achieve the best they can be. Have fun!