Why I Chose to Study a PGCE – My Journey from Engineering to the Classroom 

When I first came to the UK from Pakistan in 2021, I had just one thing in mind — to complete my master’s in mechanical engineering and maybe work in the field. But life had other plans for me. I never thought I’d end up in teaching, let alone fall in love with it, but here I am writing this blog after completing my PGCE from The University of Manchester and securing a teaching job in Manchester on a Skilled Worker visa. Looking back, I can honestly say that doing a PGCE was one of the best decisions of my life. 

Studying PGCE at the University of Manchester 

The journey started when I began supply teaching after my MSc. I wanted to do something while figuring out my next steps and teaching seemed like a good temporary option. But the first time I stood in front of a class something clicked. I wasn’t just delivering content, I was connecting with students, answering questions, seeing the lightbulb moments and realising the difference a good teacher can make. That experience pushed me to apply for a PGCE in Secondary Science (Physics); the University of Manchester felt like the right place, and it truly was. The University of Manchester has this amazing balance of academic quality and practical experience. From the very beginning I was treated like a professional. The school placements were really challenging and very supportive. The mentors and university tutors never made me feel like I didn’t belong, which really matters when you’re new to the system and trying to figure things out. The course helped me grow. It wasn’t just about lesson plans and teaching methods, it was about understanding students, reflecting on my own practice, and learning how to make a difference in a young person’s life. Every week brought something new and even though some days were tough I always felt like I was learning and improving. 

Manchester as a city played a big part in my experience too. It’s full of energy, culture, and diversity. You’ll find people from all walks of life here and that really helped me settle in. From friendly locals, to community events and amazing food places, there’s always something happening. It’s a city that welcomes international students and makes them feel at home. 

From International Student to Skilled Worker 

Coming to the UK as an international student was not easy. There were moments when I felt lost, sorting visas, finding accommodation, understanding the education system and wondering if I’d ever fit in. But things slowly started making sense. During my PGCE, I met people who supported me both personally and professionally. The training year gave me confidence, the placements helped me build real classroom skills, and by the end I was applying for jobs and got one in Manchester. Now I’ve been offered a job through a Skilled Worker visa. For international students like me, that means security and a long-term future in the UK. It’s not just a job, it’s proof that hard work pays off, and that schools here are open to giving international teachers a real chance. 

A Message to Other International Students 

If you’re thinking about teaching in the UK or doing a PGCE, don’t let doubts hold you back. I came here with an engineering background, no teaching experience, and a lot of questions. But now I’m starting my teaching career in a city I’ve come to love. Yes, it will be challenging however, the rewards are huge personally, professionally and emotionally. The University of Manchester gave me the right tools and support to make this journey possible, and Manchester gave me the environment to grow and feel at home. So, if you’re passionate, open to learning, and willing to take the leap go for it. You never know where it might lead you. It led me here and I’m truly grateful for it. 

If you’d like to follow my journey or connect professionally, feel free to visit my LinkedIn Profile. I’m always open to sharing experiences, opportunities, and insights with fellow educators and learners.  

Written by Ahmed, PGCE Secondary Student

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