Stephanie Siviter

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I have been a teacher in Further Education since 2004. I teach English and Maths. I’m originally from Birmingham but have lived in Leeds now since 2012. I studied English at University originally. I am a mum of two boys.

What made you want to apply to your course and to Leeds?

I wanted to do an Education based masters to enhance my career and chose Digital Education as I knew it would be an expanding area during and after the pandemic and in the future.

What is it that makes you passionate about your area of study?

The possibilities for digital education in the future and how learning and teaching is changing – outside of the traditional pedagogy.

What do you think of your course so far – what aspects of the course have you enjoyed the most or are looking forward to the most?

I have enjoyed making online friends and experiencing distance learning for the first time. I have loved learning about new education technology and new things to bring into my teaching.

What would you say about the learning facilities at the University of Leeds?

My course is entirely online. I like minerva and find it easy to navigate. I have been impressed with the pastoral support and have had lots of fun in online Zoom lessons.

How would you describe the student support and community at Leeds? 

I have had contact from the pastoral person for Education (Anna Nixon) and have been really impressed with the help and support I have been given. The tutors have been kind and helpful too.

What do you think about Leeds as a city?

I love Leeds! The main thing you notice is how friendly the people are in Leeds. The city is accessible, a hive of buskers and activity, full of great places to eat and do and the best shops.

What would you say to anyone thinking of applying to your course?

It is hard at first to get used to a distance learning course entirely online but even though you are not on campus – throw yourself into the course. Attend all your lectures, try to make friends and contacts through zoom, twitter, whatsApp. Don’t be afraid to say you’re struggling. Always hand in a draft and ask for extra assignment guidance. If you are a teacher this course will give you so many new ideas to use and also get you to think about learning in a whole new way.

What do you plan to do once you’ve finished your course? What are you career aspirations?

I would like to move into Digital Learning course leader or a Digital Learning program manager in FE. I would also like to do a PHD possibly in an area of Digital Learning.

Any other comment you would like to make?

I love being a mature student at Leeds and can’t wait to gain my Masters from such a noteworthy Uni with a great reputation.