Local Teaching Experience Helps Millie Secure Job Before Graduation
It’s a double celebration for Millie Brace from Saundersfoot this week as she graduates with a BA Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Carmarthen and will be starting her teaching post at Templeton Primary School in September.
Millie chose to study at UWTSD because it enabled her to remain close to home while gaining valuable experience in local schools through the course’s extensive placement opportunities.
“I chose UWTSD because it allowed me to stay close to my family and continue living at home while studying, which was important to me,” said Millie. “Another key reason was the opportunity to complete local teaching placements. I knew how competitive teaching jobs can be in Pembrokeshire, so gaining experience in local schools was a great way to build professional connections and develop an understanding of the schools and communities I want to work in after graduating.”
Her commitment and hard work paid off when she was offered a teaching role at Templeton Primary School in her local area before graduation.
“Before graduating, I was delighted to secure a teaching position at an amazing primary school in my local area,” she said.
Millie credits the support she received from mentors, placement schools and University staff with helping her develop the confidence and skills needed to secure the position.
“Although I had not previously taught that particular year group, I received fantastic support from my class mentors and staff at Lamphey Primary School in my final placement,” she said. “Their knowledge and experience, combined with the research and understanding I developed through my course and assignments, greatly increased my confidence.”
Reflecting on her time at UWTSD, Millie praised the flexibility of the course, which allowed her to tailor her studies to her own interests and professional development goals.
“My favourite thing about the course was the flexibility of the assignments. They allowed me to explore topics that genuinely interested me and focus on areas that reflected my personal development targets from placements. This made the work feel relevant to my experiences in the classroom and helped me connect theory with practice.
“Being able to tailor my research to my own interests and professional goals kept me engaged and motivated throughout the course, while also helping me develop knowledge and skills that I could apply directly to my teaching practice.”
Alongside her academic and placement experiences, Millie enjoyed the supportive community at the Carmarthen campus.
“My favourite thing about the campus was the variety of spaces available to socialise with friends and connect with others on my course between lectures. I also really valued the library, which provided a quiet and supportive environment for research, completing assignments and staying focused.”
Outside of her studies, Millie made the most of Pembrokeshire’s renowned coastline and countryside.
“Staying in Pembrokeshire meant the stunning coastline and countryside were still accessible to me, which I love exploring in my free time. I enjoy paddleboarding along the coast, going for walks with my dog and spending time outdoors whenever I can. More recently, I’ve started learning to surf, which has been a fun new challenge and a great way to appreciate the local beaches.”
Like many student teachers, Millie faced challenges balancing placements, academic work and increasing professional responsibilities throughout her degree. However, she says the support network she developed was instrumental in helping her succeed.
“One of the biggest challenges during my studies was adapting to different placement schools and managing the increasing expectations placed on me as I progressed as a student teacher. Each school had its own routines, approaches and learning environments.
“What helped me most was the support of other student teachers, both on my course and on the PGCE programme. We shared resources, exchanged ideas and helped each other with lesson planning and preparation. Just as importantly, we were there to listen and support one another when we were finding things challenging.”
Millie would strongly recommend UWTSD to anyone considering a career in teaching.
“I would definitely recommend UWTSD for teacher training. The course provided excellent placement opportunities, allowing me to gain valuable experience in local schools and build professional connections that helped me secure a teaching job before graduating. I have also made friends for life, and the relationships I built have been one of the most rewarding parts of my university experience.”
As she begins her teaching career, Millie leaves UWTSD with both the qualifications and practical experience needed to make a positive impact in the classroom and her local community.
Further Information
Eleri Beynon
Head
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: e.beynon@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 01267 676790