Cheryll Duckworth

Childhood Studies and Early Years

Where are you from?

Washington, Tyne and Wear

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

The University's reputation and course availability.

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

Friendly, welcoming and overall, a nice to place to be. I enjoy spending time with family and friends in and around Newcastle.

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

How welcoming everyone is and what's available to do.

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

Extremely welcoming, staff and students alike are always there to help and make you feel like you fit in.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

The support from both staff and students, the accessibility you have to lecturers and tutors. The university also has a very relaxed atmosphere.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

Personally for me, I think it would have to be everyone involved in the Disability team. After registering with them, they have been extremely helpful, supportive, and above all understanding.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

Other students, seeing how far they have come, as a first year, it was quite daunting starting university, especially as a mature student, but seeing how confident and hard working other students are, inspires me to keep working hard as well as making sure I enjoy the course.

What is your favourite place on campus?

I really like the library, it's welcoming and always accessible, for my needs anyway. I like the fact that you can sit and discuss work with other students but there is also a place to go for quiet study when you need to.

Have you joined any sports teams, clubs or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tells us about the highlights?

Unfortunately I have been unable to so this due to ongoing health issues, however, had things been different, I would have gladly done so. I am aware that the University offers fantastic access to clubs and team events as well as volunteer projects.

What is the best thing about your course?

I particularly like how in depth the course is. Understandably first year is merely an introduction to what is ahead, but I feel that we are being given and incredible insight into what we wil be studying in subsequent years. The course itself is quite diverse and very interesting, I like the teaching styles as well as seminar work.

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

To read a lot more, I have learnt the it important to take charge of your own learning experience rather than relying on others to direct you. Talk to fellow students/peers, discuss assignments, group work etc, and read, read a LOT.

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 would like to go in to a classroom environment once I have graduated, whether it be teaching assistant or going further to apply for a place on a PGCE program. Being diverse, listening, understanding and looking beyond what is front of you.

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

I have been on placement in the first semester, it was extremely enjoyable and I found that there was a lot more going on behind the scenes. I felt that I came away with a better understanding of the classroom environment, and I enjoyed learning the different styles employed when educating children. It was a pleasure to be involved with the staff and pupils alike and I was made to feel very welcome.

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

I would highly recommend the university and particularly this course. I think it offers a fantastic base for anyone wishing to go into a wide variety of jobs, from teaching, social work, nursing, you name it. The course offers a wide variety of topics and students can go further to specialise if they wish. Be involved with other students and staff, talk to peers, ask for help when you need and so t be afraid of talking to lecturers/tutors. Make fiends, work hard and above all, enjoy your time at Univeristy.