Graduating from Teesside University in Darlington

Returning to study led Katie Tucker on a new path towards a career in education.

Katie was among successful students who gathered on Saturday 7 February to celebrate academic achievement in a joint Teesside University and Darlington College graduation ceremony.

The diverse awards range from subjects such as engineering and counselling to education studies, hospitality management, journalism and computing.

Katie, 30, of Hurworth, who graduates from the Professional Graduate Certificate in Education in Teaching in the Lifelong Learning Sector, has already embarked on a career in teaching at Darlington College.

Having completed a criminology undergraduate degree, Katie went on to undertake a master’s by research into criminal women at the University of Central Lancashire before travelling to New Zealand where she spent time working with horses on a farm.

Katie said: 'I knew I wanted to go into teaching and applied for the course while I was in New Zealand. I received lots of information which made the application process easy.

'Travelling and working abroad has provided great experience and insight into social issues. I’m originally from Aycliffe village so it was great to be able to find such a good course close to where I grew up.

'It was brilliant to secure a placement while on the course in the public services department at Darlington College, as it linked to my criminology degree. Being a mature student, but having life experience, enabled me to take a very positive attitude towards my learning.'

And having moved into an academic role at Darlington College, Katie teaches on the PGCE, along with the Public Services diploma and Access Course for students seeking to move into higher education.

She said: 'I aim to use the experience from my current post to grow as a teacher and provide the best education I can for my students. As a lecturer, returning to study also helped me to feel more empathy with my own students.

'There was a real mix of ages and backgrounds on my course while I was studying and I feel it has really helped me to get to where I want to be in my career.'

Attending the ceremony was Teesside University’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Graham Henderson CBE DL, Teesside University Chancellor Lord Sawyer of Darlington, Darlington College’s Principal Kate Roe and Darlington Mayor Councillor Gerald Lee.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Professor Henderson said: 'Our graduates work hard to achieve their success and I am very much looking forward to congratulating them and also paying tribute to their families, partners and friends for the vital support they have offered.'

Kate Roe, Principal of Darlington College, said: 'Our students' success is testament to their hard work and talent, and the commitment of our staff. But it also reflects the close relationship we have with Teesside University and our shared vision for the town of Darlington and future generations of students.'

---