Primary Education (accelerated) alum, Nathan, explains what he was looking for in a course as a mature student returning to education. Hear about his experience studying BA (Hons) Primary Education (accelerated) and what he most enjoyed about it.

Course: BA (Hons) Primary Education (accelerated)

As a mature student looking for a career change, it was particularly important that I could select a course which offered me flexibility in my career moving forward.

The BA (Hons) Primary Education (accelerated) degree offers robust course content, backed by knowledgeable lecturers who have extensive teaching experience in a broad range of school settings.

The content of the accelerated course encourages students to think proactively about the various aspects of teaching, supporting children and the students continued professional development.

Year One of the course introduces students to the preliminaries of teaching, with an opportunity to undertake professional placements in different educational settings. As someone who had not been inside a school for over 15 years, I was nervous at first, but the course lecturers and placement staff were supportive in helping me overcome my anxieties.

In Year Two, students draw upon the knowledge gained in the previous year to work on their dissertation and other modules. One of my favourite modules in second year was 'A Broad and Balanced Curriculum', which involved going out with the student cohort on a field trip to the Royal Armouries, Leeds, and planning our own school visits.

There's a practical element to most of the course modules which gives you opportunities to plan lessons, prepare school trips and take into account inclusion within your practice. I've found this has helped me understand what will be required of me in my professional career.

Make no mistake, effectively studying on the accelerated course demands resilience, self-discipline and stamina, but with the support of your lecturers, support staff at Leeds Beckett University and other students, the accelerated course is an excellent experience and achievement to support you in your future career.