Case Study

I wanted to change my career from design and marketing to teaching, so was looking to gain a teaching qualification. I live in Vietnam, so was limited to distance learning courses, and during my research, I found that the University of Sunderland kept popping up as a reputable institution to support my studies whilst I lived abroad. The PGCE Education (DL) course was recommended to me by a fellow teacher at the school I work at, and I also networked with people who have completed the course, or know people that have. The feedback was very positive. England is also my home country, so I wanted a teaching qualification that would be recognised there if I ever return.

The support was amazing. At times I found it difficult to juggle my full-time job as well as full-time studying, but all the staff were amazing at supporting and adjusting my learning. They made me believe I could complete the course when I was thinking of quitting. They boosted my confidence when I really needed it. I also found the course to be well organised, with great resources available to advance my understanding of the module subjects.

I now have a lot more confidence in my teaching, which I have noticed in my classroom management and overall attitude to the school. Gaining this qualification has also allowed me to earn a pay rise and start thinking of my future, teaching in international schools abroad.

If anyone is looking to study this course, I would say go for it! The University of Sunderland looks after their students wherever they are in the world. Even during the global pandemic, I was still able to contact the staff and complete my course on time. You really are in safe hands with people who are experts in their field.

I am super happy I took on the challenge of juggling a PGCE Education course and a full-time job. The year went so fast and I learnt so much about teaching. It was the best decision I could have made for my future career in teaching!”

Published 20 July 2020