Primary School Teacher, NSW Department of Education
Bachelor of Education in Primary Education
UTS offers wonderful practical experiences for future teachers. I learned so much through not only my tutors at university but also through all the teachers and schools where I had prac placements.
Lauren studied a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education.
Why did you choose to study Education at UTS?
The practical nature of the education degrees at UTS was definitely one of the main reasons I chose to study here. The thought of starting practical teaching experiences right from the first few weeks of my first year of study was extremely exciting!
Looking back, what were some of the highlights of your time at UTS?
Competing as part of a team at Eastern and Australian University Games was definitely one of the highlights of my time at UTS. I met so many amazing people from all different degrees at UTS, through my sporting teams. But the absolute highlight of my time at UTS was completing an International teaching placement in Samoa. Experiencing what education is like in a completely different cultural context to Australia was extremely rewarding. I taught upwards of 60 students at a time, whose first language was not English. This opportunity allowed for professional growth and maturity, as I learned a lot about myself as a teacher, and gained skills in flexibility and adaptability in the classroom. The Samoan students’ willingness to learn, and the respect they hold for their teachers was incredible to see. The children’s smiling faces and positive outlook on life was something that I will never forget. (Not to mention the incredibly beautiful surroundings and waterfalls in Samoa).
What does a day in the life of a Primary Education teacher look like?
No day is the same. I teach a beautiful class of Year 3 students and I absolutely love it. A normal day in the classroom is eventful, challenging and very busy, but at the same time very fulfilling. Every day I juggle a huge variety of personalities, but no day goes by where the students don’t have me laughing.
What advice would you give to students considering a career in Education?
Go for it! Teaching is challenging but it one of the most rewarding careers you could have. Not only do you get the opportunity to influence future generations, you learn new things yourself every day and have so much fun whilst doing so. UTS offers wonderful practical experiences for future teachers. I learned so much through not only my tutors at university but also through all the teachers and schools where I had prac placements.
