Aisling Given

Life Coach at Life Given

I wouldn't be where I am today without having had the opportunities given to me in these placement schools.

Why I chose to attend Leeds Trinity and my best memories

In 2002 Trinity and All Saints was the best teaching college around and it had a really great reputation. I lived in North Yorkshire and wanted to have an easy commute home. I lived in halls in the first year and my room overlooked the car park at the back of the University. I remember having lectures just downstairs from my halls so a few of us used to turn up in our slippers with a cup of tea, typical casual student behaviour.

Valuable placements

My placements were in all the schools that eventually employed me as a teacher and who I’ve had connections with for over 20 years, working with teachers and leaders in the same family of schools. They were schools that were near to home, and this made life very easy when I was working the long hours that student teachers put in. I wouldn't be where I am today without having had the opportunities given to me in these placement schools. Headteachers talk and if you are good, they want to keep you.

What I enjoyed most about the courses

The lecturers were so friendly and approachable. They all had experience as Primary School teachers, so they talked to us about the realities as well as having a really strong education department. And this hasn't changed. I recently completed an MSc Psychology (Conversion) course at Leeds Trinity and the lecturers and tutors go above and beyond to support the students. Meeting new people and learning in a completely new subject area was incredibly motivating. 

Leaving university with new skills

When I finished my undergraduate course, I was a confident teacher, now after completing the MSc I have new skills in technology, research and psychology subject knowledge. 

Career success

I’m proud to have been a headteacher, leading my own school and then branching out to run my own business. 

My career after completing my MSc

I am now a Life Coach and Education Consultant working for myself at Life Given Wellbeing. I still teach too to keep me up to date. I love working with new people and making sure leaders know how valuable they are and how confident they can be in what they do. 

My advice to prospective students thinking about doing a similar course

These courses have been fantastic. Teaching means you have to work hard, but it doesn't have to be hard work if you love it. The chances are, you will love it – it is so incredibly rewarding and gives you skills that can lead you to new ventures.