Ian Pointon

Why did you choose Primary Education at Northumbria?

I chose the course at Northumbria University because friends who had already been on the course had said that they really enjoyed it, that it was very relevant to education and that it was the best course around. I wanted to go to the best university.

What appealed to you about teaching?

I'd spent quite a bit of time previously working with children and I had come to a bit of a crossroads in my career. Over a bottle of wine or two with my wife I discussed it and decided to go to work in a primary school, to be a teacher.

How would you describe the support on offer?

The support available to students at Northumbria, in my opinion, is second to none. If you’ve got a problem with your course, if you want to cry on someone’s shoulder, the staff are there for you.

How does being based at Coach Lane affect the university experience?

Coach Lane Campus has something very important to me that City Campus doesn’t yet. There is grass and sky and space. So the Coach Lane experience, for me has been a good one, I’ve really enjoyed it.

Have you had any work experience?

On my course, work experience is very important. Obviously early primary education means you’ve got to get into schools as often as possible. At Northumbria we’re very lucky, going to schools regularly. I’m delighted to be on the course at Northumbria University and I’m pleased to say that I have had a lot of work experience. It prepares me for when I graduate and get a job.

How would you describe Newcastle as a city?

It’s a diverse city, in a fantastic location, 20 minutes to the North, you are in rural Northumberland and a few minutes to the East, you’re on the coast. Newcastle as a city itself is fantastic, vibrant and forward-thinking – what more could you ask for?

What advice would you give someone looking at your course?

Get yourself into a school first of all. Get a taste of what the course is all about. Have a go at it and see if you like it – I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.

What are your plans for the future?

I'll be graduating in about six months time. Plans for the future… four walls, little classroom, 26 kids, “Mr Pointon, Mr Pointon, Mr Pointon”! I’m going to love it!