Inspired by a desire to make a positive difference to children, Marli Lawrence from Tenby has recently qualified as a teacher after graduating from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David with a First-class Honours BA in Primary Education with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

For Marli, a career in teaching follows a strong family tradition. “Both of my parents are teachers in local schools - my mum is a secondary school teacher and my dad is a headteacher of a primary school”, said Marli, “so as you can imagine education was always a topic of conversation at home. I don't think there was ever a moment where I realised I wanted to become a teacher, I feel like I've always just known that it was what I wanted to do”.

Twenty-one-year-old Marli chose the course as she wanted a career where should could make a difference to the lives of children.

“My aim was simply to become the best teacher I could be”, she explained, “I want to create a classroom where children feel safe, valued and excited to come to school. Studying with a hearing impairment has also strengthened my understanding of how important inclusion is, and that's something I'll take into every classroom I teach in”.

Marli chose to study at UWTSD’s Carmarthen campus because of its strong sense of community and sense of belonging.

She continued: “I wanted to study somewhere I knew I'd be supported, and that's exactly what I found at UWTSD. The strong sense of community meant that we became such a supportive network of student teachers who were always there to encourage one another, celebrate each other's successes and help each other through the more challenging moments. Along the way, I was lucky enough to make friends for life!”

A highlight of the course was the placement element where students spend time in schools who are part of the University’s professional learning partnership.

She said: “It was important to me to complete my placements in Pembrokeshire, where I hope to begin my teaching career. I was incredibly fortunate that all three of my placements were in welcoming and supportive schools, each providing different experiences that helped me grow in confidence and develop my teaching practice. Every school gave me the opportunity to learn from dedicated staff who were generous with their time, guidance and encouragement.

“I completed my final placement at Pembroke Dock Community School, which was also my network lead school. The school supported me throughout my final research project, and provided valuable bridging opportunities, allowing me to continue developing my experience and confidence as I prepared for my teaching career.

“My class mentor, senior mentor and the wider staff team were incredibly supportive throughout, always making time to offer guidance, reassurance and opportunities to develop. Their encouragement helped me grow in confidence as a teacher and made me feel like a valued member of the school community.”

Alongside her placements, Marli undertook research exploring how schools build relationships with their wider communities which she presented to the senior leadership team of her Network Lead School, as well as presenting at the University’s annual teaching conference.

She continued: “One of my proudest moments of my degree was being selected to present at the University's Aiming for Excellence Conference. It was completely out of my comfort zone, but it reminded me that the best opportunities often come from challenging yourself.

“This course has given me the confidence to begin my teaching career and encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone. Some of my favourite memories are the little moments, like walking back into the classroom Tuesday afternoon after PPA and hearing "Miss Lawrence, we missed you!" Those moments reminded me exactly why I chose teaching!”

Although balancing, university and part-time work could be challenging, Marli found the time to create her own handmade and digital resources to make every lesson engaging and meaningful for her learners.

“Over time, I learned to work more efficiently and realised that the biggest difference comes from knowing your learners, being adaptable and making the most of every learning opportunity,” continued Marli.

“Teaching allows me to combine creativity, curiosity and meaningful relationships while helping children develop confidence and a love of learning”.

She highly recommends the course to anyone considering a career in education, stating: “This course gives you the perfect balance of university learning and hands-on learning experience, so you can put everything you learn into practice straight away.

“For me it was the people who made the biggest difference on this course. Every lecturer was approachable, supportive and genuinely wanted us to succeed, both professionally and personally. I always felt like there was someone I could turn to, no matter how big or small the problem was.”

Marli is now planning to travel to see more of the world and undertaking supply work in between her travels. She is also learning Welsh to increase her confidence in the language as well as Spanish so that she can connect with her family’s heritage.

“I know these experiences will help me grow personally and provide valuable life experience that I'll carry into my teaching,” she remarked.

“Although I can't wait to have my own classroom, I intend to do some supply teaching across a variety of schools in Pembrokeshire in between my travels before searching for a more permanent teaching post.

“I can't wait to start my teaching career and become part of a school community where I can continue learning while inspiring children,” she added.