Foundation degree makes teaching aspiration a reality for Megan

A Foundation Degree at SERC proved to be the right move for aspiring teacher Megan Pentland, setting her on track to reach her goal a university degree.

Megan (26) from Newtownards, completed her GCSEs and A-Levels at Regent House Grammar School, but realising she was not yet ready for university, took some gap years and completed 2 A-Levels at Belfast Met to figure out her next step.

When the idea of a primary school teaching role came up, Megan discovered she didn’t have the grades for direct entry into a course at Stranmillis University College. Looking for another option, she found the QUB Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at SERC Newtownards, which was the perfect vehicle to take her in the right direction.

Commenting on her experience at SERC, Megan said: “I chose to enrol on the Foundation Degree in Early Childhood Studies at SERC to give me an extra qualification to progress to university. The course was great in allowing me to study on a part-time basis, while still being able to work and earn money. SERC enabled me to learn more about the profession I was passionate about, both in the classroom and during my placement, which opened many opportunities to gain valuable experience.”

“During my placement, I worked as a 1:1 classroom assistant at Greenwood Infant School, with the role of supporting a child with autism by adapting activities to support their emotional and sensory needs. I thoroughly enjoyed the placement and found it very rewarding in seeing the small victories in the child’s development. I gained an amazing insight into the teaching industry, which made me sure it was the right career for me.”

After completing her Foundation Degree at SERC, Megan progressed to Stranmillis to complete a degree in Early Childhood Studies. She is currently studying for a PGCE in Primary Education at Ulster University Coleraine.

Megan added: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student at SERC. I received fantastic support from my tutors both educationally and emotionally, and the small classes meant I could work closely with them to get advice in a range of different areas. I was given great pastoral care during my time at the college in dealing with assignments and coping with stress, and the tutors always made time to help with any problems.”

When asked if she would recommend SERC to other prospective students, Megan said: “I absolutely would recommend it to anyone who wants to progress in their education and doesn’t want to go straight down the university pathway. SERC gives you the opportunity to study at a more flexible rate that suits your lifestyle, as well as offering courses that give you practical experience. My time at the college allowed me to learn so much about the profession I wanted to go into and presented a springboard into university. I have just started my PGCE in Primary Education on Northern Ireland’s top PGCE course, which has been possible because of my time at SERC.”

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.