Lucy Bailie

BA (Hons) Early Primary Education

Where are you from?

Cumbria

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

Northumbria was one of very few universities that offered a course with an early years specialism and after wanting to be a teacher for my whole childhood and developing a love for teaching children in the early years it was the best course and best city.

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

Newcastle is a lively, interesting and educational city. My favourite part of Newcastle is that it is a vibrant city, completely different to where I am from and therefore I can simply enjoy regular buses and a mixture of culture, fashion and friendliness, on my door step.

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

I have been surprised at how easy it has been to adjust to city life and the friendliness and helpfulness of the local people has really impressed me and made it feel like home.

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

Yes, very. The lecturers were very enthusiastic and excited which helped me to be positive and confident about making the right choice. I fitted in well because the campus is full of students of professional courses which really helps.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Independence and extending my understanding of teaching and how children learn.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

All the lecturers are so inspiring for different reasons and different aspects of the teaching profession. I feel really lucky to have a positive and interesting course.

What is the best thing about your course?

Placement. Actually becoming the teacher of the class is the such amazing experience.

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

Be enthusiastic about teaching and the children will be enthusiastic about learning.

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?

I want to be a primary teacher and possibly an early years or literacy coordinator. Professional skills.

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

I've been on lots of placements, the most memorable was recently when I taught a class of 39 nursery children and I felt like I was in the deep-end but was able to manage the nursery and continue to create an exciting experience for the children to learn in.

Have you taken up any opportunities to travel with your current course/undertake field trips? If so, please tell us about them.

We have been on a number of trips in the local areas, both on placement and through university. This has helped me to understand the historical background of a variety of areas in and around Newcastle.

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

If the course is right for you then there is no questioning the city if right. There is everything you need and more you just need a course you feel passionate about and it will be a fantastic experience.