Abi Grice

Abi graduated from our accelerated BA (Hons) Primary Education Studies degree at ARU Cambridge with a First Class Honours, and is now completing her Initial Teacher Training.

When I first started Sixth Form, I did not expect to go to University. The time commitment and financial pressures felt quite daunting, and I assumed that higher education would not be the right path for me.

However, the more experience I gained working with children in different educational settings, the more certain I became that I wanted a career where I could support children's holistic development.

What changed everything was discovering ARU’s accelerated two-year degree. Knowing that I could complete my degree a year earlier than the traditional route made University feel far more realistic and motivating. On top of that, understanding the financial support available and ARU’s blocked timetable, which allowed me to work part-time alongside my studies, removed many of the worries that had initially held me back.

Why did you choose to study at ARU?

For a number of reasons, it was the perfect fit for me. Firstly, ARU offered the accelerated two-year Primary Education Studies BA (Hons) course, which really stood out to me.

The location also played a big part in my decision. The campus is easily accessible, and the transport into Cambridge city centre is cost-effective and straightforward, especially with the Park and Ride system. ARU was close to home, so I did not need to pay for accommodation, which made studying far more affordable for me.

The block timetabling was another huge advantage. Being required to attend campus only two days a week meant that I could continue working part-time as a Learning Support Assistant in a local academy school. This provided me with hands-on classroom situations which directly supported and strengthened my understanding regarding the theory in my academic learning. Alongside this, the online support available through Microsoft Teams, Canvas, and other University resources made independent study organised, accessible, and flexible.

When I attended the Open Day, I immediately noticed how welcoming and inclusive the atmosphere was. The staff and lecturers were incredibly kind, and more than happy to answer any questions, which reassured me that I would be well supported. I also really valued the smaller class sizes, which created a comfortable learning environment where you get to know your lecturers and peers - more personal than learning in lecture halls.

What’s the most valuable thing you’ll take away from the Primary Education Studies course?

The importance of resilience. Studying on an accelerated degree was challenging at times, and there were moments where it felt intense and demanding. However, I learned to stay determined, and continue giving my best, even when things seemed difficult.

By consistently putting in the effort and pushing myself, I developed both academically and personally. This degree experience helped me grow into the best version of myself, and it was incredibly rewarding when this hard work resulted in being awarded First Class Honours. The course has shown me that progress takes perseverance, and that challenges can lead to growth when you believe in what you are capable of achieving.

Which aspects of your course most helped your career development, and why?

The practical opportunities to apply what I learned in meaningful, real-world situations. Throughout my degree, I was able to gain classroom experience by planning and delivering activities, writing lesson plans, and working collaboratively through group presentations. These experiences helped me prepare and consider my own future practice.

I also valued the opportunities to plan and prepare for educational experiences beyond the classroom, such as visits to museums, libraries, sport centres, and local outdoor spaces. These experiences highlighted how enriching it can be for children to learn through exploration and real-world environments.

Where and what did you study before coming to ARU?

I completed my GCSEs at Linton Village College, during the COVID-19 pandemic. I then went on to study at Haverhill Community Sixth form, where I completed Health and Social Care (equivalent to three A-Levels), achieving an A*, as well as Sociology, and an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). These subjects deepened my understanding of child development, wellbeing, and social influences on learning, all of which strengthened my interest in working with children and supporting their holistic development.

Alongside my studies, I completed 175 hours of volunteering across a range of childcare and educational settings, including baby groups, nurseries, and primary schools. This gave me valuable early experience of supporting children of different ages, needs, and backgrounds. I also took part in a Peer Mentoring Programme, helping younger pupils in the secondary school with both academic and personal support.

What have you done since graduating from ARU?

I am currently undertaking my ITT to work towards gaining QTS. Alongside this, I am completing my PGCE through ARU, which allows me to continue developing my academic understanding of teaching and learning theories while gaining practical teaching skills.

The progression from my BA (Hons) to the PGCE has felt very natural. There are some familiar faces among the lecturers and students, which has been reassuring and has helped create a supportive learning environment. The structure and learning materials feel consistent with what I experienced during my undergraduate course; the interactive teaching style has also continued, which helps learning feel engaging and collaborative. Additionally, the ongoing use of Microsoft Teams has supported my transition onto the PGCE.

Once I have gained both QTS and PGCE, my aim is to move into full-time teaching and have a class of my own in a primary school. I have especially developed a strong interest in Key Stage One, where I enjoy supporting children as they build early foundations in learning and confidence. I am looking forward to creating a classroom environment where children feel encouraged, supported, and confident.

What inspired you to get involved with teaching and education in the first place?

My interest in education began during my time at Sixth Form, where I studied Health and Social Care, Sociology, and an EPQ on Childhood bullying. These subjects helped me understand children’s holistic development, and how important positive relationships are within learning environments. Alongside this, I completed 175 hours of volunteering across baby groups, nurseries, and primary schools.

Seeing the impact that patience, encouragement, and consistency can have on a child’s confidence for learning made me realise that teaching was the path I wanted to pursue. These experiences confirmed my passion for supporting children and encouraged me to continue developing as an individual within primary education.

What piece of advice would you give to other students in your field?

To gain as much practical experience with children as possible, and in a variety of settings. Working with different age groups and in different environments - such as classrooms, nurseries, sport groups or clubs - helps build a deeper understanding of how children learn and interact.

It is also valuable to speak with current professionals, whether this is through volunteering, placements, or informal conversations. Their insight and experience can offer guidance and useful strategies. Alongside this, reading widely around child development can help build a foundation of knowledge to support your practice.

What is your favourite thing about studying in Cambridge, and what have you learned about it that other people might not know?

My favourite thing about studying in Cambridge has been the accessibility of support and resources, particularly within the libraries. All staff are consistently friendly and willing to help, and I always felt comfortable asking questions. I really valued the children’s section of the library which supported my learning.

Something others might not realise is how easy it is to access these services. Whether through in-person support or online chat, help is readily available and approachable which creates a supportive environment.

What projects are you currently working on, both on and off the course?

My main focus at the moment is working towards gaining my QTS and becoming the best teacher I can be. I am doing this by putting my full effort into my placement schools, learning from experienced staff and applying the knowledge and research I am gaining through my PGCE. Each day is an opportunity to develop my practice.

Alongside the course, I am also continuing to read widely and complete additional professional development courses, particularly in areas such as behaviour management and inclusive practice. These help me to stay informed and prepared for teaching in contemporary classrooms with a strong foundation of learning.