Pursuing a lifelong ambition to teach

“I loved my course. It was really helpful because we were able to do all the groundwork on the legislation around teaching."

Ashley Loasby, graduated in 2011, BA in Education Studies

Coming from a family of teachers, Ashley had a lifelong ambition to join the profession.

“My grandmother and aunt were both teachers so it seemed the natural thing for me to pursue a teaching career,” said Ashley, 28, from Kettering, Northamptonshire.

She started her journey to becoming a teacher at the University’s Bedford campus in 2007, where she studied a BA in Education Studies.

“I loved my course. It was really helpful because we were able to do all the groundwork on the legislation around teaching and gain a wider understanding of the profession.

“Throughout my studies I was able to gain a clear understanding of how education has changed over the years and I was able to choose modules that I was passionate about, like Policy and Practice.”

Among others, Ashley chose to focus on a module in Special Educational Needs (SEN) & Disability, a subject close to her heart.

“I wanted to focus on SEN because I wanted to make sure I had a good understanding of inclusion so I could ensure every child I worked with was achieving at all times.”

After completing her degree Ashley went on to complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

Ashley worked in several schools after graduating as a supply teacher so she could get experience of working in a range of school set-ups and different age groups.

She was invited to supply at Kettering Buccleuch Academy, and was eventually offered full-time employment teaching Year 6 children – she has worked there for five years.

“I love watching my students grow into independent learners, knowing that I've supported their learning journey and helped them on their path through life.”

Ashley’s dedication to her work saw her named Teacher of the Year at the United Learning’s national Best in Everyone Primary School Awards at the House of Lords in 2017.