Teaching was not the original intention for Bryan Vasquez, who discovered later in life that he could combine a passion for maths with a rewarding teaching career through a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background, and what brought you to London Met in particular?
London Metropolitan university has been on my radar for some years now. After graduating, I worked in customer operations, before moving into the education field as an inexperienced LSA (learning support assistant). I am currently on my PGCE with a specialism in mathematics. However for many years, my interface with mathematics was only as a hobbyist, so I started working in schools without any real intention of teaching. I enjoy working with children and find it rewarding to be able to impart knowledge and facilitate self-discovery within the minds of young people.
What made you want to study in London?
I have lived in London my whole life. London has some very good options for studying PGCE.
What's your favourite part of the course so far and why?
Learning about teaching and classroom management strategies. Being able to perform them in the sessions. The session are extremely helpful and have helped boost my confidence.
Can you tell us about any work-related experience or placements you've done as part of the course? What have been the highlights?
I have worked in various schools in London over the past two years. Before starting the course I had worked as a learning support assistant in a primary school, before taking up the role of cover supervisor in the same school. Therefore I have some knowledge of how British schooling supports pupils into transitioning to the next phase (KS3).
What's been most challenging about being a student?
The most challenging aspect of being a student is the workload. Before the course began in September, I – like many other trainees – was enrolled into a subject knowledge enhancement course, which really set the ball rolling as far workload is concerned. However workload is a both a drawback and a benefit, since we are getting additional practice and pedagogy to bolster are practice for the placements in the future.
How have you found the professors / teachers?
The professors are very supportive and always ready to respond to any queries that you may have.
What drives you?
I am driven by my interest in my subject knowledge – which is mathematics. I am also driven by the prospect of pupils enjoying and pursuing maths into the future. If I can embody a person who has a drive and passion for the profession, then I will be content.
What are you most proud of in your life so far?
Maybe there isn’t a milestone that sticks out more than others. However, I am just proud of making 'my parents proud'.
Have you used any of the services at London Met (eg careers, accommodation, student money and advice, counselling, disability support) – and if so, how helpful have they been?
I have not used any of the wellbeing services. Any queries that I have had so far have been answered relatively quickly and easily with an email.
Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of uni and why they are important to you.
Nowadays my interest is mainly getting assignments submitted as quickly as possible. However I generally enjoy music, I play the piano which is a nice way to decompress after a day of work.
What's your plan when you graduate, and how do you think London Met will help you succeed in this?
My plan is to work full-time in a local school. The PGCE will give me the qualified status to be able to work in school around the country.
Any tips for students new to London Met?
Socialise, meet people on your course and reach out to your tutor or staff, because they are there to help.
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Find out more about teaching courses at London Met.
"I am driven by my interest in my subject knowledge – which is mathematics. I am also driven by the prospect of pupils enjoying and pursuing maths into the future. If I can embody a person who has a drive and passion for the profession, then I will be content."