Sophie Bradburn

There are many ways my undergraduate degree prepared me for my current role, the most significant being the way I was invited in all seminars and lectures to think critically about events, people, historiography etc. This was a skill that was nurtured by my lecturers throughout all modules, all the way from my first year to my third year. This skill has been essential to my current role as I have been able to adapt and apply this to an educational setting. Being able to think critically about learning sessions allows me to adapt and develop these sessions, ensuring that they are of the highest quality when delivered to schools and groups.

My favourite thing about studying History at Edge Hill was the module choice and lecturers who lead these modules. From migration in Europe, to digital archiving skills and the rise of the British Empire, I gained a wide varied knowledge pool which was both skills based and provided historic context. The lecturers had so much passion for their subjects and brought the topics to life!

Edge Hill supported me with career enhancement by ensuring that I did not just learn the ‘facts’ of history but also understand and acquired the skills needed to become and effective historian. They supported me in understanding how these skills could be transferred to various job roles and opened my mind to career opportunities that I did not even know existed!

The top 3 skills I gained from my degree would be: critical thinking skills, analytical research skills and confidence in my ability to write both academically and for leisure.

Before I started my current career I trained and worked as a Primary Teacher & History Curriculum lead for 5 years. It was my exposure to the mainstream education system, married with my love and knowledge of history which inspired me to look at education within a museum setting. I have always found alternative ways of learning interesting and being able to explore these in the context of history is a massive bonus!

A typical day in my job… When I arrive, I check over my emails and messages for the day. I then check in with the volunteering team and discuss what schools we have arriving that morning and support with the organisation of this. I then spend the morning setting up and delivering learning sessions. These can range from exploring the meaning of Remembrance with primary aged children, making documentaries with Year Six children or exploring 1930’s life in Germany with secondary aged children. In the afternoon I will assist my colleagues with wider family and school projects, plan programming for the following weeks and complete any admin tasks. I also get the opportunity to help and assist with events here at IWM, which always lots of fun! Everyday looks different and is often very busy!

My advice for someone considering studying History at Edge Hill would be to just go for it! Take every single opportunity and throw yourself into whatever your interests are. If it is something you are passionate about, I really believe you can’t go wrong!