Skip to content ↓
The Learning Institute

The Learning Institute

Life after TLI - Donna's story

We caught up with another former TLI student recently.  Donna completed her foundation degree and BA (Hons) top-up degree with The Learning Institute, and then moved on to our teacher training programme.

Name: Donna

Course: Teacher Training with PGCE

Year of graduation: 2019

 

Tell us a bit about what you are doing now

I am working full time at a primary school in year 5/6 mixed class. I have a fabulous support team as well as a great team of teachers to work and learn from.

 

How did you find the process of returning to education/study?

I found it fairly okay as I had just finished my BA Hons with The Learning Institute. The support of the other students and the tutors was an absolute god send for the training year.

 

Donna with Nick Appleby
Donna with Nick Appleby, Director of The Learning Institute

How has your life changed since you graduated?

After becoming a fully qualified teacher I have been able to enjoy spending more money on my family as my earnings from being a TA to Teacher have significantly increased. I have also made many new friends both through the training and my school.

 

What did you enjoy most about studying?

I enjoyed the tutor sessions and meeting new people from different backgrounds. I enjoyed the research and learning so many new theories and ideas to take forward into my teaching.

 

What was your biggest challenge during your study, and how did you overcome it?

The biggest challenge was time constraints. Having a full time job as a TA as well as a family to support was incredibly challenging at times. With the help of my family and friends I was able to overcome these.

 

What’s the one piece of advice you would give to someone thinking about going back to education? 

To be organised, prepared and ready for hard work. Also, to be prepared to give up your social life for a while, but the sacrifice is more than worth it !