From student to teacher- Middlesbrough College’s PGCE can kick-start your teaching career

Rhiannon Little tells us how the PGCE course at Middlesbrough College changed her life and kick-started her teaching career!

Rhiannon worked as an assistant manager in a private day nursery in South Wales before moving to Middlesbrough. After relocating, Rhiannon decided that she wanted a career change and came to see a Career Advisor at Middlesbrough College.

Rhiannon said: “The Careers Team at Middlesbrough College were very supportive and helped me decide what career I wanted to pursue. By the end of the meeting I had applied for an education course in the Higher Education department at Middlesbrough College and had requested a teaching placement at the College too.

“Being a student at the College really gave me a unique perspective as my placement involved teaching students as well as being a student myself!”

After completing the PGCE course, Rhiannon applied for a teaching role in the Health & Care and Childcare department. Rhiannon’s application impressed the team and she was offered the job! Rhiannon now teaches on Level 2 Health & Social Care, Level 3 Health & Social Care, Level 2 Childcare and Level 3 Supporting Teaching & Learning.

Rhiannon said: “This is my second year teaching at the College and my role has changed several times, I started working for the Health & Care and Childcare department as an hourly paid member of staff and this quickly progressed to a permanent, part time role and then a full time role. 

“My favourite thing about working at Middlesbrough College has to be my colleagues. They have given me unwavering support and encouragement in my new role and really do make the College a great place to work and study.

“The College has also provided funding for me to complete another course to broaden my professional knowledge and enhance my teaching skills which is fantastic.

“My PGCE course at Middlesbrough College was excellent and I have learnt so much from the tutors who were extremely supportive and knowledgeable. The programme really did change my life. I would definitely recommend Middlesbrough College as it is an excellent place to learn and work.

“My tutors who supported me throughout my training, and welcomed me as a student, have now welcomed me as a member of staff.” 

Middlesbrough College’s Professional Graduate Certificate in Education and Training is a professional teacher education programme that will qualify you to teach in the post-14 education sector and training sector. This includes further education colleges, adult and community settings and training providers. The course is offered as both a full time and part time study option.

Find out more about Teaching and Education courses.