Personal Statement - Primary Education with English

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I believe that the importance of education is to inspire growth in young minds. It is the best tool any child can possess: developing minds and changing the world. With an education, children can fulfil their potential with the teacher's guidance. This is why I am devoted to teaching in a primary setting. My aspiration to become a primary educator arose from my work experience within a nursery setting. During my two week work experience, I was able to care for children from 3 months to 5 years of age. This allowed me to make an informed decision that, while I enjoyed working and assisting children with their learning in early life, I would much prefer to lead classes and assist older children with their understanding of the English language. This valuable opportunity highlighted my skill and eagerness to help form the foundations of the next generation's formal education, allowing every individual to flourish in life.

I have recently started work experience within a local primary school, which has so far taught me how to think quickly on my feet and also about team work, leadership and how rewarding being a teacher truly is. Small activities such as reciting colours and counting to ten were fulfilling, especially when the child felt a sense of achievement too. The reality of having different situations, activities and watching a child progress everyday excites me. I have enjoyed working with the young pupils tremendously, and this has assured me about my career choice.

English is a vital aspect to every child's education; moreover it has always sparked great enthusiasm, for me, throughout my own schooling, as I have always achieved great success in the topic. The analytical skill and passion for language and literature I gained throughout my first year in the sixth form helped me decide to combine my degree with English. I hope to utilise these skills by giving children the ability to explore their imagination, especially through reading and writing.

Particular areas that I am interested in are the current issues in education, such as diversity and methods of teaching. I am also intrigued by the progression a child makes from their early years to adolescence. Becoming an educator is about lifelong learning, I realise I must adapt to anything that this challenging, yet rewarding career gives to me. Though, I must never forget how crucial it is to be a conscientious teacher. For me, becoming a teacher is not only about what I can gain, but what I can personally give back to children, as teachers can leave the most remarkable impressions upon a young person.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

The analytical skill and passion for language and literature I gained throughout my first year in the sixth form helped me decide to combine my degree with English. English is a vital subject that has always sparked great enthusiasm in me, reflected in my consistent success throughout my schooling.

I have pursued my interest in English by participating in various activities outside of the classroom. These include establishing 'The Creative Writing Club' for younger year groups within my school. The club explores the student's writing abilities and aids their development in the diverse area of creative genres. By running the club, I have gained valuable knowledge in managing younger students, not to mention the satisfaction of passing my knowledge on and seeing it being utilised by pupils. I am confident I will be able to continue this into primary teaching.

Other ways in which I have pursued both my interest in English and teaching include becoming an English prefect. This role requires me to mentor younger students, primarily improving their spelling and grammar. In addition to being able to acquire new skills for teaching, I was able to give personal knowledge to the students that they might not be able to gain elsewhere.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

During my two week work experience within a nursery setting, I was able to care for children from 3 months to 5 years of age. This allowed me to make an informed decision about my career path, highlighting my skill and eagerness to help form the foundations of the next generation's formal education.

I have also recently started work experience within a local primary school, which has so far taught me how to think quickly on my feet and about team work, leadership, and the rewarding nature of being a teacher. The small activities such as reciting colours and counting to ten were fulfilling, especially when the child felt a sense of achievement too.

Passing on knowledge and inspiring others is what I feel being an educator is about. I hope to continue improving upon my weaknesses and reflect on my experiences while engaging with children. I understand that being a teacher involves lifelong learning and adapting to any challenges that come with this rewarding career.

Universities applied to:

• University of Brighton
• University of Chichester
• Canterbury Christchurch University
• Bath Spa University
• Liverpool Hope University

Grades achieved:

• ABB
• BBB

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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