Iona McCabe : Education Studies
Entry requirements
Scottish Higher : Standard : BBCC Minimum : BCCC
A Level : CCD Irish Leaving Certificate : H3 H3 H3 H3 International Baccalaureate : 26 points
International : IELTS of 6.0 with no element lower than 5.5 .
Required subjects : English required and Maths preferred at Nat 5 / GSCE
Mature / Access : We welcome applications from mature students with relevant qualifications or experience , see : www . qmu . ac . uk / college-qualifications
Direct Entry : Year Two
• We expect to have a very small number of places available for second year entry into this programme . Requirements are HNC in Childhood Practice ( 120 credits ) with B in the graded unit , see : www . qmu . ac . uk / college-qualifications
Other requirements : A satisfactory criminal records check is required .
Why QMU ?
Why did you choose QMU ?
I chose to study at QMU as it was the only university that offered the type of course I was looking for – one that looks into community education and the psychology and sociology that impacts it . The lecturers were all so welcoming , which really helped me settle into the course . QMU ’ s campus being just a six-minute train journey to Edinburgh city centre is also fantastic as it means that I have no issues getting there via public transport .
What have you most enjoyed about your course ?
I ’ ve enjoyed a lot of the course but mainly the different view of education that we get to see and understand , not only focusing on how education works within schools but in different communities . My highlight so far would have to be learning British Sign Language as part of my studies .
Has there been a particular course activity you found especially interesting ?
The placements were varied and interesting . I was unsure what I was in for in a community-based education setting , but it was an excellent opportunity to experience the things we learn in lectures first-hand .
• This course offers a forward-looking , evidence-based approach to education studies .
• This is an intellectually inspiring course that will develop your critical-thinking abilities , hone your research skills and help you take your first step on the career path of your choice .
• The course will use the scope and flexibility available to emphasise areas of learning that align with QMU values and the vision of the initial teacher education team at QMU .
- Learning through the lifespan , community engagement , and sustainability ; - Health and Wellbeing ; - Inclusion , marginalisation and poverty ; - Cultural , societal and political contexts ; - Human rights , responsibilities and global citizenship .
How have your lecturers supported your learning ?
The lecturers are amazing when it comes to supporting us and always reply to emails – no matter how silly the questions are ! They are also great within seminars and always make sure we follow along and give us the opportunity to speak out and ask questions .
Any advice for students who might be interested in this course ?
Just do it ! I was unsure myself when I first applied , but I am so glad I did as it has allowed me to make new friends , has provided me with loads of different opportunities and allowed me to study a subject I love .
Have you used any QMU services to help you through your student journey ?
I ’ m dyslexic , so the University has helped me sort out my SAAS funding and helped me to apply for the disability allowance . They also provide study skills sessions where I meet with a tutor , and they help me with whatever I need , such as reading through journals and essay plans and keeping me on track with my course work . Student Services also helped me get extra support with my assessments due to my dyslexia , such as extra time in any assessments that this may impact . The PAT ( Personal Academic Tutor ) system is also great as you have a direct link to one of your lecturers to help you with everything ; I ’ ve spoken to mine a lot about assessments and deadlines to ensure I am up to date with it all or just to clear things up if I ’ m a bit confused about something .
What are your plans for after graduation ?
I might continue with my studies , although I ’ m not sure what I ’ ll do just yet as I ’ m waiting to see where this course will take me . Plus , I ’ ve had such a good experience that I don ’ t think I ’ m ready to stop being a student any time soon !
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