Jenny Hatch
Course: BA History
Graduated: 2006/07 Academic Year
Destination approx. 6 months after graduation: PGCE, Keele University
Background
I have always been interested in history and, as my Mother is a pre-school teacher, I knew that’s what I wanted to do. I came into Higher Education to further my career and also with the idea of eventually doing a PGCE.
I decided to study this particular course because the lecturers were so friendly and helpful when I came to the University on an Open Day. I really liked the place; the sense of community was strong and having guaranteed accommodation on campus was a really big positive.
Where are you now?
I am doing a secondary PGCE course at Keele University, focussing on teaching History. The course covers general teaching techniques, key national curriculum information and analysing how children learn. We are also taught how to improve our communication skills, as its imperative that we get our information across clearly. At the moment I am on my second school placement doing my teaching practise, which I am really enjoying, and I have just had an interview for a job at this school for next year, which is a real boost.
How did you get there?
I received a lot of support and encouragement from my tutors who encouraged me to do the PGCE. It was the course, and life at Aber, that has given me the confidence to do well at the school I’m in now and be offered a position here.
Halls are a great place to stay as it is so sociable. It helps you gain self-esteem, to believe in yourself and to learn how to cope with difficult situations - all useful skills for teaching.
With regard to work experience I did a volunteer placement at a school at home during reading week. This has really helped me while I have been doing the PGCE. It is very important to either take a year out to work or to work during the holidays to gain experience for the future.
For extra-curricular activities I was part of the dance society for a year, but unfortunately I didn’t have much time to get fully involved. I used to instruct young people in dance whenever I could fit it in, so at least it kept up my interest and is something else I could offer a school now.
Where are you going?
As I’ve already mentioned, I’ve recently had an interview with the school and have now been offered the job. I realise that I am really lucky to have a job so soon. If I was given an opportunity for Head of History in the future I would definitely take it.
What advice would you give to a student doing your subject at university now?
If you are leaving Aber and are unsure of where to go next, make contact with the Careers Service. For those looking to come to Aber just try and make the most of all the opportunities to try new experiences. Ask for help at the Careers Service - especially with PGCE courses, they are there to help you get the most out of your university experience and prepare you for the world of work.