Lauren Hewson

Where are you from?

Stockton-on-Tees but currently living in Jesmond, Newcastle

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I had researched many Universities that had a Primary Education course and found that Northumbria was one of the best. I have always wanted to live in a city, as where I live is quite small and quiet. I do live less than an hour from Newcastle and it was a comfort to know that I didn’t live too far from home and if there was a problem I could easily and cheaply get home.

What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?

I love having a city life, it is always so busy and exciting. I love the shopping and the many bars and restaurants there are to visit. Even after 3 years here I feel I have only seen a small sample of what it has to offer.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

The Geordie accent isn’t actually too hard to understand after you’ve been around a while. Everyone is kind and friendly, I didn’t expect that from a city.

Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?

I’m sure I speak for everyone in my cohort when I say I don’t think we could have been more welcomed and felt more comfortable throughout our first few days at Northumbria than we were. Our first lecture with Chris Million and a trip to Tynemouth beach in our first week meant that everyone interacted and made friendships right from the beginning. 

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Living away from home and going to University to learn about teaching; something I have always wanted to do.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

I cannot pick just one person; there have been many members of staff in our programme that have helped me in lots of different situations throughout my three years. But if I had to say it would be Chris Warnock. Every time I have felt like giving up or I couldn’t achieve what I wanted, he has helped me pick myself up and carry on.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Chris Million; even though he has not been involved in our cohort this year, I think that his fun and enjoyable lectures and his love and excitement for teaching has secured my decision to become a teacher.

What is your favourite place on campus?

The S.U. It’s a nice place to sit on the sofas with a cup of tea and a piece of cake between long lectures.

What is the best thing about your course?

The best thing by far is the way that our cohort is so friendly and I can honestly say I know majority of the people on my course. I think it’s due to the many workshops and group presentations that have allowed us to get to know many people. I know friends on other courses have small groups that they speak to in lectures and then leave and go home without making an effort with anyone else.

What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?

Do not leave work too late, make sure you have plenty of time to proof read and complete reference list in advance.Within teaching I would say I have now learnt how to be authorative within the classroom, I struggled with how to achieve this at the beginning.

What do you want to do in the future? What skills have you learned/improved that you think will be of most use in your future career?

After qualifying I intend to have a year of travel as I have always said that before I work I want to see the world.
After that I fully intend to apply and hopefully become a Key Stage 1 Primary School teacher. I think that my social skills and confidence have increased hugely throughout my time at Northumbria. I now feel that I could go to interviews and work with more experienced staff without feeling that I am not as good or have opinions.

Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were your most memorable experiences?

I have been on many placements throughout the last 3 years at Northumbria. I have had many memorable experiences but I would have to say that working for the block week in second year placement at Christmas was my favourite week in school. Although we still had lessons I loved to help with the Christmas Nativity and organising afternoon art and singing lessons.

If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?

I would say if you are serious about becoming a Primary School teacher then I do not feel that there is a better University to accommodate you than Northumbria. The support, guidance and care you get here is beyond what I ever expected of a University. It is an outstanding course and you will be missing out if you do not apply.

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle?

Absolutely! My confidence and self-belief that I can actually and will actually become a teacher has risen dramatically from my first day at Northumbria. I can speak in front of a group of people without hesitation and feel very comfortable to give my opinions.

If you had 3 words to sum up your time with us what would they be?

Unforgettable, Life changing but extremely challenging