Rebecca Lindsay

Edge Hill’s teacher training course offered exactly the pathway I was looking for. I had never considered working with children. However, as I matured and gained more life experience, my perspective shifted. I became increasingly aware of the profound impact early experiences have on a child’s development.

I discovered a genuine love not just for caring for young children but for educating them. This realisation was deepened by my own experiences as a mother of two young children. I wanted to explore opportunities to pursue a career in early years education, one driven by the desire to make a difference to children’s lives.

I was drawn to Edge Hill’s inclusive approach to higher education. I initially thought university might be out of reach. However, Edge Hill’s Fastrack programme provided me with the opportunity to pursue an undergraduate degree.

The Fastrack programme not only prepared me academically but also reinforced my confidence in my abilities. Edge Hill ensures that individuals from diverse backgrounds are given the opportunity to succeed.

Edge Hill’s strong commitment to student success is evident in the range of support services available, such as the learning services in the Catalyst building and the dedicated staff always on hand to help. These resources have been invaluable in refining my ability to articulate ideas effectively and meet the academic standards expected at university level.

I have developed a strong sense of professional identity, something that is fostered from day one. I distinctly remember lecturers emphasising that our sessions were not just traditional teacher-student interactions, but rather professional dialogues in which we engaged as colleagues. This approach reflects Edge Hill’s dedication to preparing students for their future careers, encouraging us to see ourselves as professionals from the outset.

I have learned to critically evaluate situations from multiple perspectives. My degree has taught me that there is no single ‘right’ approach to teaching and learning—education is complex, and different viewpoints must always be considered.

My favourite aspect of my degree is that it not only teaches us what children need to learn in terms of the curriculum but, more importantly, how they learn. This emphasis on how children acquire knowledge truly sets this course apart. It has reinforced the importance of keeping the child at the centre of everything I do, recognising their individuality and the different ways they develop at their own pace.

The best thing about Edge Hill is the strong sense of community that runs throughout. It provides a safe and supportive environment where every student is encouraged to flourish and reach their full potential.

The university offers a wealth of opportunities, from academic support and educational trips to societies, events, leadership and mentoring programmes, and the Student Opportunity Fund, which helps enhance employability. It also recognises individual achievements through its numerous scholarship awards, reinforcing its commitment to student success.

Edge Hill truly places community, support and encouragement at the heart of everything it does. I am so glad I chose to study here. Edge Hill has supported me in numerous ways throughout my degree. Balancing full-time study, motherhood, part-time work, and an unexpected health crisis was challenging, but the university provided the understanding, flexibility, and support I needed to complete my degree to a high standard.

Through strong relationships with the teaching team, particularly my personal tutor, I felt heard and was given the advice and adaptations necessary to succeed. The Faculty of Education’s extensive expertise across different areas allowed me to seek expert opinions on topics I was exploring, deepening my understanding. Their support extended beyond academic guidance to practical help with lesson planning during placements and preparation for lesson observations in interviews.

Since graduating from my undergraduate degree I have continued my studies at Edge Hill. I’m currently studying MA Education (Special Educational Needs). Alongside this, I am working as a supply teacher, which I thoroughly enjoy. This experience allows me to observe a variety of teaching practices across different schools while enhancing my own teaching skills and reflective practice.

Once I complete my Masters degree, I hope to secure a full-time position in a primary school, ideally within a nursery or reception class, where I can undertake my Early Career Teacher (ECT) training. Looking ahead, my ultimate ambition is to become a school SENCO, supporting children with additional needs and helping to shape inclusive education practices.

My biggest piece of advice is to throw yourself into everything the course has to offer! If an opportunity presents itself—take it. If you need help—ask for it. Show up to every session, work hard, and fully immerse yourself in the experiences provided by the early years team. You won’t find another degree like it, nor another staff team as dedicated and supportive. It’s hard work, but it’s also fun, and believe me, it goes by faster than you think. Once it’s over, I promise you’ll miss it—and you’ll never regret choosing this course.