Katie Wright

This education programme is full of variety which is helping me navigate a wide range of opportunities to figure out which is the right path for me. I always knew I wanted to go into teaching, but I was undecided on what age group, what field and what type of school. This history joint honours is amazing for me as I have a keen interest in teaching and history, so my degree lets me explore both.

Edge Hill is widely recognised for its education programmes; I always had my heart set on coming to Edge Hill as soon as I discovered the course. I have been told it is the best place to learn about education, and it’s true.

The top three skills I have developed during my degree are:

Public speaking. I was terrified of this before starting but now I can happily stand in front of a class and deliver a presentation.

Adaptability skills. Being able to adapt to different environments and know when to change aspects to fit a situation or my writing.

Technological skills. Through a wide range of assessment types, I’ve developed the ability to build digital content from scratch, create more effective PowerPoint presentations, and confidently use a range of digital platforms and tools.

My most memorable moment so far was when our lecturers wanted to celebrate us and our hard work over the past few years. They organised a celebration for all of us. They arranged our food, drinks and even little certificates.

My favourite thing about my degree is how diverse and freeing the subject is. It allows for so much freedom to explore different avenues, different topics and introduces you to new topics you would have never considered.

My favourite thing about Edge Hill University is the support and how welcoming it feels. Everyone is always there for your best interests, and it shows. The support is amazing.

My favourite place on campus is definitely the rooftop garden on top of the Catalyst building. Being able to sit up there and study on a nice day is fantastic. But when it isn’t nice weather, I’d say the food hall is then my favourite place because they do the most amazing food.

The pastoral care is phenomenal, my personal academic tutor always emails me to check if I’m ok or if I need support- but never in an overbearing way. Staff get to know you well, they know if you need anything without you even saying it.

The mental health support team are absolutely fantastic and are on hand to direct you to whatever kind of support you need whether it be long-term or short-term.

When I graduate I’m pleased to say I have achieved a place on the PGCE Secondary History course at Edge Hill, I couldn’t face leaving the University so opted to carry on here.

For anyone considering studying this course at Edge Hill, I’d say be open to all topics and try as many opportunities as possible. Get involved! When lecturers or heads of modules contact you to help with open days, be a student rep etc, do it – you gain so much experience, and you see a more personal side to university and the course.