I was able to tailor the degree to my own interests

I was attracted to the Education, Culture and Childhood BA studies degree because of the broad nature of the course; I was able to tailor the degree to my own interests and strengths.

This allowed me to take my studies down a more social, philosophical route, whilst my peers could opt for psychological, historical or other routes.

Having this kind of freedom and choice immediately made the course more appealing.

Whatever my expectations were, Sheffield exceeded them; I was overwhelmed by the personal nature of the School of Education, first noted when the course director had learnt everybody’s names on our introductory tutorial on the first day of the first year. This immediately set the tone for the three years I was to spend studying.

It wasn’t just the interesting modules and passionate teaching that made my studies so great: I will be forever grateful for the pastoral care that was given to me on the course during certain times of personal need.

Sarah Winstanley

BA Education, Childhood and Culture

The opportunity to undertake a practical working placement during the second year was so rewarding: it really allowed me to think beyond my studies and experience things I would never have experienced without the support of the department.

Another highlight was being able to really get my teeth into something that interested me during my dissertation. Again, I was supported by a dedicated dissertation supervisor whom I will never be able to thank enough for her guidance and words of wisdom throughout the process.

The knowledge I have gained from the School of Education has already supported me in my future career: having just finished my primary PGCE, I could not have tackled the masters credits without my knowledge base and work ethic that Sheffield has instilled in me.

My undergraduate degree has also supported me in practical situations in the classroom. I am now a newly qualified teacher and will be embarking on my teaching journey this September as I become a Year 1 Class Teacher in London.