Marie (Angeli) Roberts, from the Philippines, moved to Leeds to get her PGCE qualification, after deciding she was at her happiest teaching primary school children. She chose Leeds Trinity University for its strong Catholic foundation and ethos.

Angeli, who is graduating today, has praised Leeds Trinity for helping her become “the best teacher” she can be, after successfully completing her PGCE at the University’s School of Education. Reflecting upon her university experience, 47-year-old Angeli admits that it was not easy, but the “immense support” she received from her lecturers and mentors at the University made all the difference.

“I knew beforehand that it was not going to be easy, but I still found it tough. The biggest challenge I had to overcome was completing my Level 7 assignment while juggling life, work placements, immigration and job applications. My saving grace has been the immense support I got from my tutor, my Level 7 advisor and my mentors at Leeds Trinity,” Angeli said.

Looking back on her experience at university, Angeli has some key tips for students who are looking to join the same programme: “Work hard. Learn from your mistakes. Grab every opportunity to teach. Try to stay positive. If you struggle, do not hesitate to reach out as there will always be help and support from Leeds Trinity.”

Her journey as an international student gave Angeli the strength and perspective to find familiarity in her new country and city. She chose Leeds Trinity for its strong Catholic foundation and its partnerships with Catholic schools. Angeli said: “As I was planning my move to the UK, seeing images of the Chapel on Leeds Trinity’s website was comforting to me, amid the uncertainty of relocating across the world.”

Angeli is “proud to be a product of Leeds Trinity University”, an attitude reflected in her work experience and studies, which her lecturers have praised.

Alison Griffiths, Deputy Head of the School of Education at Leeds Trinity University, said: “Angeli was a pleasure to have as part of the Primary PGCE programme. Although arriving as one of the first international PGCE students at Leeds Trinity in September, with a limited understanding of the UK education context, she quickly made her mark joining in all sessions with enthusiasm and supporting her peers when it was needed with care.

“She showed the same empathetic approach in all three of her school-based training experiences where her professionalism and dedication shone through. Angeli faced many challenges during her time on the programme and her resilience was certainly tested at times but she navigated all obstacles with grace, asking for help when it was needed and working with tutors and the professional services team to find solutions. On behalf of the Primary PGCE team, we would like to say how proud we are of the teacher she is becoming and look forward to hearing about the next steps of her professional journey.”

To find out more about studying PGCE at Leeds Trinity University, visit the website.

For more information on the University’s Catholic mission, vision and values, visit the Catholic Mission page.