Alumni

Andrew Turnbull

Career Path: Head of Physical Education - St John's School and Sixth Form
Location: Bishop Auckland, UK

I began as a PE Teacher in 2016 after securing a job in my first PGCE placement school. Since my last year of Secondary School I had decided to pursue this career path and committed to researching the best qualifications to build my CV with the long term aim of securing a place on an Outstanding PGCE provider. I studied hard at A-levels and felt like my confidence speaking in front of others really flourished after the age of 16 through my involvement in coaching. I always enjoyed sport but realised there was a real sense of satisfaction in playing different sports and in helping others to learn. Through conducting a school placements in each summer term across my undergraduate degree I also gained valuable insights into the nature of teaching, the challenges and the rewards which ultimately helped me hone in on this career.

What are you doing now?

I am currently the head of large secondary school PE department in County Durham. The school has a huge emphasis and excellent track record for sporting achievement.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

The reputation as an outstanding provider for all things associated with sport stood out. The facilities are second to none and the campus too also really helped me decide, three out of my 5 choices were at Northumbria!

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

I really enjoyed the undergraduate experience and I really did work to get the most out of every opportunity. I had a goal coming in to university, however, the breadth of modules, range of seminars and lectures also really helped me enjoy the academic side of the course. I really felt the Northumbria staff were so supportive and approachable. I got a lot of good advice and practical support from the tutors including sourcing School placements and CV writing for the PGCE.

How connected was your course with industry?

The lectures were a good mix and varied enough to the extent they did not feel repetitive over the whole course. The course was focused on Sport Coaching however application into industries including teaching, physiotherapy, business and healthcare were really clear. I decided to conduct placements in secondary schools however I know friends went into professional sports teams, charities and even the police, highlighting the dynamic nature of the course.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

I worked in two schools across the three years to support the modules and managed to establish a good network with teaching staff who I later was able to draw on for advice. The teachers I worked with were pivotal in helping me secure further placements in other schools; this ultimately helped me when applying for the PGCE too. It seems like a cliche but everyone in PE knows each other" was really mentioned and I can confirm it really is true so making a good impression and building up connections with schools and staff is really key.

What was the best thing about your course?

The course was a nice size and we ended up having a really close knit group attending seminars. The work was challenging enough and the tutors helped to support and provide guidance whenever it was needed. The practical application seminars were also really enjoyable and you felt you could actually try out new things.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I achieved a First Class degree which helped me set out straight away, when applying for a PGCE, that I was serious and keen to work hard. The degree course had a good reputation and I think that really resonated with the course leaders on the PGCE, a quarter of the candidates who were successful in getting onto the Durham PE PGCE were from the Northumbria Sports Coaching Degree course.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Perhaps surprising on a Sports Coaching course, I really benefited from the academic writing. My English skills improved significantly through the assignments and dissertation in particular and since going into teaching I have continued to utilise the writing skills I undoubtedly developed through this period of study. My confidence also flourished through exposure to what would have previously been "uncomfortable" situations (i.e. leading in front of others). I got the chance to plan and deliver sorts sessions in a safe environment and gradually develop key areas of my own leading; I came into the PGCE feeling confident and ready for the classroom challenges.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I honestly enjoyed the whole experience, the campus feel, the course, and the people. I think at the time coming to the end of three years I was ready to move onto the next challenge, however, I have really contemplated potentially one day looking at working in a university setting based on my experiences as a student.