Case study - Claud: Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) - Art, Design & Media with Theatre Specialism

Claud previously completed a Level 3 Diploma in Theatre Production at the MET in 2016 before returning to study for their PGCE in Art, Design & Media with Theatre Specialism. We caught up with Claud to find out more about their experience of teacher training at GB MET.

Why did you apply for the course? 

I have always had a passion for supporting others to progress creatively, through the arts, specifically performance and backstage theatre- there are so many possibilities and opportunities.

After completing a BA (Hons) degree in Theatre Technologies in London, I wanted to return to my home county of Sussex and pursue a course where I could learn how to make education, specifically further and higher education study a fun, invigorating and expressive option for young people to pursue.

How has the course helped you in your current employment or in your career progression?

The course overall has helped me to analyse my own personal and professional development as an educator and academic, identifying and realising successful strategies for inclusive learning; and, most importantly- provided me with an opportunity to work directly with students who may have additional needs.

After graduating from this course, I am currently pursuing a full time MA in Inclusive Arts Practice to further refine my creative and inclusive skills and working alongside this as a technical teaching assistant at a film university.

How has Greater Brighton Metropolitan College supported your development?

Gaining experience within the classroom and feeling as if I was a valued member of the teaching department was definitely one of the key ways I felt supported.

The services and facilities provided to support students within the learning resource centres have been extremely useful as there are many recent journals, books and guidance documents available to support students with independent study, research and reflection and learning.

Has the experience been rewarding?

The experience has definitely been a rewarding one. From having a difficult time in high school, to becoming a qualified teacher; I was able to use my experiences to support students to become the best versions of themselves.

What are your plans for the future?

My plans for the future are to complete my MA in Inclusive Arts Practice at the University of Brighton and pursue a career in academia and creative education working with further and higher education students who have additional needs- supporting them to get creative and access the services they need to become independent learners.

I also am continuing to develop my public motivational speaking as a disability and mental health advocate- as with a passion for helping others, it is a natural progression!

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying this course at the MET?

Get to know the staff you will be working with in your subject specialism department. Form working relationships in amongst the workplace to support yourself and your colleagues/peers.

The biggest thing I’d say to anybody thinking of pursuing this course would be to remember that your story is an important part of your teaching practice- draw on your own experiences and passions with integrity, dignity and confidence!