Month: February 2026

Meet graduate Jack Carberry, PGDE Biology

Jack graduated in 2025 and is currently completing his probationary year in Stirling.

“Completing the PGDE in Biology at Edinburgh Napier University was a really important experience that shaped me into the teacher I am today. Before starting the course, I was extremely nervous about the idea of standing in front of a class and teaching for the first time, but the structure and support built into the programme helped push me out of my comfort zone. Each module and school placement gradually built my confidence and helped me find my voice and develop my own teaching style.

What stood out to me was that the course not only taught me about education theory but also how to apply that knowledge in real classroom situations. For example, exploring topics like cognitive load theory and the wider context of learning gave me a much better understanding of how pupils process information and how thoughtful lesson planning can make a real difference to pupils’ learning and understanding.

I really valued the balance between theory and practice. Spending time in labs developing Biology and BGE Science teaching skills, as well as practising teaching in front of peers, giving and receiving feedback, and practising marking assessments, gave me the hands-on experience I needed. These sessions were challenging but incredibly worthwhile, and they made me feel much more prepared for teaching in real schools, especially when it came to probation.

The peer support throughout the course was also something I really appreciated. Everyone was so willing to share ideas and encouragement, and that sense of community made such a difference during the more demanding parts of the year. The lecturers were also extremely supportive, and their enthusiasm for each subject and aspect of the course made a huge impact by making it a more enjoyable experience.

Overall, the PGDE was a demanding but rewarding year. It gave me the confidence, knowledge, and mindset I needed to start my probationary year feeling ready, supported, and excited about my future in teaching. I highly recommend Edinburgh Napier for PGDE because it provides an excellent balance of academic study, practical experience, and personal support, all of which prepare you for the classroom while inspiring you to become the best teacher you can be.”

Written by: Jack Carberry, PGDE Biology

Edinburgh Napier University offers a PGDE in specialisms such as Maths, Physics, English, Biology & Chemistry, both full-time and part-time.

CASES first chair of Teaching and Learning Enhancement Division

We congratulate Dr Mel Leggate, Associate Professor in Exercise Physiology and Head of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences at Edinburgh Napier University, on her appointment as the inaugural chair of the Teaching and Learning Enhancement Division at the Chartered Association for Sport and Exercise Sciences, CASES.

A delighted Mel said, “I have learned a great deal through my involvement with the Education and Teaching Special Interest Group (E&T SIG), under the excellent leadership of Professor Joanne Hudson FCASES, and I am excited to take this next step as we establish ourselves as a newly formed Division.

“This is an important time for teaching and learning in Sport and Exercise Science. Educators across the sector face unprecedented sector pressures, and how students learn and engage with their studies has evolved significantly. The Division will promote excellence through scholarship in teaching and learning, support evidence-informed practice, and provide practical support that helps to deliver quality education.

“I am passionate about creating a Division that brings people together, shares good practice across diverse settings, and ensures CASES provides tangible value for members at all career stages. I look forward to working with the Division Committee and the Board to identify our priorities and support teaching and learning excellence in Sport and Exercise Science.”

Meet graduate Kate Wood, PGDE Biology

Kate Wood is proudly working at Speyside High School in Morayshire after graduation.

“Choosing to complete my PGDE (Biology) at Edinburgh Napier University was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I would wholeheartedly recommend the programme to anyone considering a career in teaching.

I first approached the university a couple of years before applying, when I was considering a career change and exploring becoming a teacher. Dr Eric Easton generously took the time to review my transcript and offer thoughtful advice. That early compassion and professionalism turned out to reflect the ethos of the entire programme.

Once on the course, I found the staff to be deeply experienced, supportive, and genuinely committed to shaping well-rounded, reflective practitioners. The tutors complemented one another exceptionally well, offering different strengths and perspectives that created a dynamic and holistic learning experience. I particularly enjoyed learning about inclusivity delivered by Dr Heather Earnshaw. This wasn’t a flat, “2D” approach to teacher education; it was nuanced, thoughtful, and rooted in real classroom practice.

One of the aspects I valued most was the space the tutors created for thoughtful discussion of the current issues affecting education today. They were able to guide us through complex and sometimes sensitive matters with compassion and expertise. These discussions broadened my understanding beyond the individual child or class, helping me to consider the wider, interconnected factors influencing education — from local community contexts to national trends and challenges.

Throughout the year, we were exposed to the full breadth of what it means to be a teacher: child development, theories of learning, pedagogical approaches, interdisciplinary learning, contexts of learning, assessment strategies, understanding additional support needs, inclusivity, and differentiation, the list goes on! Weekly subject-specific sessions were invaluable, and I draw upon the experience gained from these sessions daily in my role.

Despite the intensity of the one-year course, everything was delivered with clarity, purpose, and an evidence-informed foundation. We weren’t just taught what to do — we were taught why we do it, learning to ground our decisions in relevant research and current literature. This strong theoretical base has been invaluable now that I am in my probation year.

Placement experiences were organised with great care. I felt supported not only by my school mentor but also by the university tutors, who maintained support throughout. Their guidance helped me translate what we learned at university into real, practical teaching skills in the classroom.

I can genuinely say that the PGDE at Edinburgh Napier has equipped me with the skills, understanding, and professional values I rely on every day as a practising teacher. It is a course delivered by educators who embody the very best of the profession, and I am incredibly grateful for the experience.

I have not only been able to hit the ground running as a newly qualified teacher, but I have been able to engage in professional discussions with my new colleagues and be a contributing member to my team.”

Written by: Kate Wood, PGDE Biology

Edinburgh Napier University offers a PGDE in specialisms such as Maths, Physics, English, Biology & Chemistry, both full-time and part-time.

Meet graduate Hayley Guy, PGDE Chemistry

Hayley Guy graduated in 2024 and has just completed her first year of teaching in Fife.

“Having just completed my first year of teaching, I’ve had a chance to really appreciate how well the PGDE at Edinburgh Napier University prepared me for this role. The course gave me the perfect balance between theory and practice; we weren’t just learning about teaching, we were constantly putting it into action. From the first placement onwards, I felt supported and encouraged to try new approaches, reflect on what worked, and build my confidence in front of a class.

One of the things that stood out most to me was the sense of community. The lecturers were always approachable and genuinely wanted us to succeed, offering guidance and reassurance whenever things felt overwhelming. My peers were such a big part of the experience too, we shared ideas, supported each other through challenges, and celebrated the small wins along the way. This has continued throughout our probationary years and beyond.

I also really valued how much emphasis was placed on reflection. That mindset has carried through into my first year of teaching. I still find myself using the same reflective habits to improve my lessons and adapt to my pupils’ needs.

Looking back now, I feel incredibly grateful for the time I spent at ENU. The PGDE gave me the tools, confidence, and resilience I needed to not just survive my first year, but to really enjoy it. It set me up with a strong foundation, a supportive network, and the belief that I can keep growing and improving throughout my career as a teacher.”

Written by: Hayley Guy,  PGDE Chemistry

Edinburgh Napier University offers a PGDE in specialisms such as Maths, Physics, English, Biology & Chemistry, both full-time and part-time.