PGCE student Lucy Simpson
Find out what trainee teacher Lucy Simpson has found to be her favourite part of her PGCE Secondary English with Drama course at London Met – and what made her switch to teaching in the first place.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background, and what brought you to London Met in particular?
When doing my BA in the North West, Covid hit, leaving my university experience bleak and I was uninspired what to do next. I stumbled upon a teaching opportunity when searching for a job and fell in love with the role! It made me realise I wanted to go out and achieve my PGCE to become a qualified teacher and there was no better place I could think to do this than London.
What made you want to study in London?
100% the culture! I think everyone needs to experience different cultures, religions, lifestyles – especially when going into teaching. To help widen their mindsets, perceptions but also to meet people from all walks of life. It's an inspiring city that I feel privileged and excited to explore.
What's your favourite part of the course so far and why?
I think the lecturers really make the course so enjoyable. It's amazing to learn from those so excited and focused on delivering the best course possible. It's created a nurturing and inspiring environment for us students.
What's been most challenging about being a student?
The PGCE course is an intense course because it's there to propel you into the profession. So it can be a very fast-paced environment which can feel intimidating, especially as you are getting to grips with this change (especially a change of city!).
How have you found the professors / teachers?
Kind, supportive and all-round amazing! They're always there to help and guide you to reach your best potential.
Can you tell us more about your placement?
I have recently started my placement and I'm loving every minute! The staff are so supportive, going at your pace when diving into the world of teaching because it can be daunting. When you begin your placement, you spend your first week getting to know the school like the layout, the policies, the systems and the pupils. It's great because I can observe everything I have learnt from university right in front of my eyes and begin to put this into practice. It's been a very enjoyable experience and I'm excited to continue on with my journey into teaching.
What drives you?
The support I have from my family, friends and even my new course mates! I want to achieve the best I can to make people proud and to show everyone what I can do.
What are you most proud of in your life so far?
I am the first in my family to ever go to University and to move away from the North East – a scary but proud moment of my life.
Do you have a favourite place within the University and why?
The cafe when you first come into the University. The staff are lovely and who doesn't want to get a coffee and pastry for £3 first thing on a morning?
Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of uni and why they are important to you.
I studied theatre and I always make it my mission to see as many different shows, exhibits that I can – a definite perk moving to London means I can experience even more of this.
What's your plan when you graduate, and how do you think London Met will help you succeed in this?
I hope to go work full time in a secondary school after I graduate. The course will give me the experience, knowledge and helpful contacts to help me achieve this.
Any tips for students new to London Met?
Make the move!
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Find out more about teaching courses at London Met.
"I am the first in my family to ever go to University and to move away from the North East – a scary but proud moment of my life. I want to achieve the best I can to make people proud and to show everyone what I can do."