Paul Evason, Design and Technology Secondary BA(Hons) 4 year degree
I chose to study my degree at Brighton because I was looking for a four year course that offered breadth of study. I also liked the fact that the course offered food and textiles as well as systems, electronics and also resistant materials. The atmosphere of the campus and also the city was a big draw as I was after something different compared to my Shropshire upbringing.
Support from course tutors
The course tutors had a good level of subject knowledge and were able to support me through group seminars and on an individual basis. They were always available to run through work and give guidance on teaching practice. I enjoyed being taught in small groups and being part of a subject community where we were able to access a range of good quality resources.
Breadth of study
I think there were a number of key features on the Brighton course that helped to prepare me for a career in teaching. The breadth of study on the course helped me to gain experience in many areas including electronics, systems, resistant materials, graphics, food and textiles. This gave me a clear advantage when applying for jobs and also when teaching the range of different subjects.
The course also offered a range of work placements with excellent mentors, a good balance of subject/pedagogy teaching and a range of taught units that considered planning and preparation for use in school.
Life as a student
My memories of life as a student at the university would include late night study sessions in the library, the great atmosphere both on the campus and also around the city and having the freedom to be who you want to be and the ethos of supporting and succeeding with what you do.
My advice to current students would be to enjoy university life while you can; make the most of your work placements – if you work hard then it will prepare you for the real job; use your mentor in school as they provide you with the best real life information; when doing units that involve making resources spend time on them – I have used some of mine in my first years; and finally be organised by finding a way that works for you to keep documents and resources together.
Achievements
Being in teaching always brings high points. Some of the achievements I have had during my career so far include
- Outstanding Newcomer to Design and Technology Award – Design and Technology Association (DATA) 2009
- Outstanding New Teacher of the Year – Midlands regional finalist 2010
- Gaining Advanced Skills Teacher status – June 2010
- Developing the Frog VLE in school and presenting at the Learning platforms conference in Manchester - June 2010
Priorities for the future
My priorities for the future include working with primary schools as part of my AST status and eventually moving back to Brighton for a head of department job.
Being in Brighton was an experience and the unique atmosphere is something that always reminds me of being in University. I liked my experiences so much that I will be returning to Brighton for my next job!
