Johnson Babatunde Tiamiyu

Can you tell us about your background (education and/or career to date?) and what inspired you to pursue a PGCE, and what was it about Edge Hill University that attracted you?

My academic journey began in 2012 when I was accepted to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in English Education. Upon graduating, I completed my one-year National Youth Service in Nigeria, where I taught English and Literature while also serving as the Corps Liaison Officer (CLO), coordinating fellow graduates. I later taught for a few years before relocating to the UAE. There, I first worked in the healthcare sector, but eventually returned to education, supporting students with learning disabilities from 2022 to 2025. This gave me clarity and helped me discover my true passion, which is working with learners with special educational needs.

When researching the next step, I realised that Edge Hill University’s PGCE Primary SENDI programme was the perfect fit. It offered the specialism and quality of training I needed to deepen my expertise and prepare for this path.

Are you the first in your family to go to university? If so, how has that shaped your experience?

No, I’m not the first. My older siblings attended before me, and their experiences made my own journey much smoother. They shared what university life was like and guided me through many aspects of the process.

How did you hear about us?

I first came across Edge Hill University while searching the UK government website for PGCE programmes. After comparing options, I found Edge Hill to be the most suitable.

What’s your favourite thing about your degree?

The SENDI specialism. It’s exactly where my passion lies, so I really value the focus it provides.

How have your lecturers helped you during your degree?

My lecturers have been wonderful, always approachable, supportive, and willing to clarify things when needed. They’ve also shown me that while teaching is demanding, it can also be exciting and rewarding.

How has your subject knowledge improved to date?

It has improved significantly. I’ve had to unlearn and relearn in many areas, and the programme’s strong emphasis on evidence-informed practice has made me more reflective and better equipped as a teacher.

How will you implement your learning within your professional practice whilst on placement?

I intend to apply both my improved subject knowledge and the professional values I’ve gained. I now understand that being a teacher extends beyond the classroom, and I’ll bring this broader perspective into my placements.

What opportunities do you think this degree gives you? What career do you intend to pursue?

The career opportunities are wide-ranging, but my immediate plan is to teach, especially in SEN settings. Long-term, I aspire to establish a global organisation that champions inclusion for individuals with learning disabilities, particularly in communities with fewer resources.

How will your degree enhance your employability?

The SENDI specialism and QTS are both strong assets for employability. However, I believe employability is more than qualifications; it’s about the skills, values, and contributions I can bring as a teacher. The degree equips me with all of these.

What’s the best thing about Edge Hill University to you?

For me, Edge Hill feels like a home away from home. Even as an international student, the warmth of staff and students, both teaching and non-teaching, makes me feel included and supported every day.

What do you hope to do when you graduate?

I plan to begin teaching in a SEN school setting while also pursuing further training to prepare myself for my long-term vision.

What advice would you give to someone considering studying this degree at Edge Hill?

You really can’t go wrong choosing Edge Hill. The location, the people, the teaching approaches, the resources such as UniSkills and the library, and the overall support system all make it an excellent choice.

In what ways has Edge Hill supported you during your degree (e.g., academic support, wellbeing services, careers guidance)?

The support has been immense. My PAT has been a constant source of guidance. Career support, well-being support and job application guidance are also readily available, which I greatly appreciate.

How have you adapted to studying and teaching in a new cultural context?

Having my family here has been a huge support, and my classmates have given me confidence as well. The first few weeks were challenging, but thanks to my tutors and peers, I quickly began to adapt and understand how to navigate the cultural differences.

Have you felt a sense of community at Edge Hill? What helped you feel included?

Yes, very much so. From my first day, the friendliness of the security team and the receptionist set the tone. Since then, every interaction has reinforced that sense of belonging and inclusion.