My enthusiasm for physics was sparked much earlier by a teacher who refused to let the subject remain dry or boring. I was part of a class led by someone whose passion was impossible to ignore. He didn’t just deliver lectures; he invited us to challenge and ask why things worked the way they did. His influence was the primary reason I chose to pursue astrophysics for my degree, and it remains the standard I hope to meet in my own career.

Wanting to have the same impact, I enrolled in the Department of Education’s Get Into Teaching programme. The programme allowed me to experience the day-to-day of being a teacher. From observing lessons to supporting students, I experience first-hand both the challenges and rewards of the profession. Seeing the moment when a concept clicked in a student’s mind, I knew I definitely wanted to pursue teaching.

Choosing to do my PGCE at the University of Manchester felt like a natural next step, having completed my undergraduate degree there. While I kept an open mind about other universities offering a PGCE with QTS, UoM stood out not just for its strong research grounding but also for the consistent support provided throughout the course. Knowing that a PGCE is intensive and demanding, I wanted to choose a university that could support me throughout the course.

The PGCE at the University of Manchester is thoughtfully structured. University-based learning introduces key teaching strategies, pedagogy and classroom management before applying them in a placement. The course included three placements across two contrasting educational settings: one in an 11-16 secondary school and one in a 16-18 college. The placement starts at a secondary school, moves to a college, and then returns to the initial school for the final placement. This structure provides invaluable experience of working across different age groups, learning needs and school cultures. Additionally, the program also offers the opportunity to briefly work in an alternative educational setting, further enriching professional development.

Being an international student from a completely different education system, I initially faced the challenge of adjusting to a new system. However, the support I received from both university tutors and placement schools was exceptional. Communication was always open and constructive. Even the feedback was framed in a way that encouraged growth rather than discouragement. At no point did I feel unsupported or hesitant to seek help. In each placement, I was treated as a member of the staff, and with their encouragement, my confidence grew.

The course is undoubtedly intensive and challenging, but consistent support makes it manageable and deeply rewarding. The course prepares you for a career beyond education; it fosters resilience, adaptability, and personal growth.

I have found that teaching is not simply about delivering subject content, but about shaping confidence, encouraging curiosity, and helping pupils recognise their own potential. If you are even slightly considering a career in teaching, I would definitely encourage you to explore it. Take part in DfE’s Get Into Teaching programme to gain first-hand experience and a feeling unlike any other. It would provide an honest and valuable insight into the profession.

Teaching is demanding, but it is also incredibly amazing. Every lesson is an opportunity to inspire and make a difference. If you choose this path, you won’t be choosing a career, but you’ll be choosing to have an impact.

If you have any questions about the programme, the PGCE experience or transitioning into teaching, I am always happy to help. Please feel free to contact me on LinkedIn; I would love to share my experience and support you on your journey.

Written by Varanleen, currently studying PGCE at The University of Manchester

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