Published on 09 July 2018
Seeing her teacher mum leave the house every morning with a spring in her step had a huge impact on the 23-year-old who this week graduated from her three-year Primary Education Degree from the University of Sunderland.
Like Alexandra – known as Alex – mum Joanne is also a Sunderland graduate having studied Early Childhood Studies at the University in 2006.
In fact, it’s was her mum’s passion for teaching which led Alex to take her chosen path and qualify as a primary school teacher.
She said: “Mum always says her job is not like going to work, it’s just something she loves doing.
“That was really inspiring, just seeing the passion she had. Now, I feel the same, I love being able to see the difference you are making to someone’s life.”
Alex’s passion for teaching was key in helping her secure one of the University of Sunderland’s Sir Tom Cowie Scholarships. This scholarship honours the memory and motivations of Sir Tom who was a long term benefactor of the University.
Alex, from High Barnes in Sunderland, said: “Having the Scholarship has been so important, it’s meant that I could give up my part-time job at Sainsbury’s in my final year and really concentrate on my studies.
“To be honest, I never expected to get it, so when I did it was amazing and has been so helpful during the past 12 months.”
Just prior to her graduation Alex had been on placement at St Mary’s RC Primary School in Meadowside, Sunderland, the same school where her mum is currently a teacher.
Alex, a former pupil of St Anthony’s School, told today how her three years at the University had really prepared her for getting on the teaching career ladder.
She said: “I feel like I’ve really been supported,” said Alex. “The lecturers care about you and are there for you when you need that support most.
“I feel ready to start my career and, to be honest, I can’t wait.
“It’s not an easy course and you have to work hard and manage your time well.
“I’ve just been on placement and it’s given me some fantastic practical experience, so now I’m ready and applying for jobs.”