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.