Noviachri Imroatul Sadiyah

How did you hear about the School of Education and why did you choose to study here?

I first discovered the School of Education at the University of Leeds through online research while exploring top UK universities offering postgraduate programs in education. I was interested to Leeds because of its strong global reputation, the flexibility of the MA Education programme, and its research-led teaching.

Tell us about your course – why did you choose it? What elements of the course inspired you to study here?

As an education practitioner with a strong interest in learning and human growth, I chose MA Education program because of its flexibility and practical focus. I love that it lets me explore different areas of education while also shaping the experience around my own interests. The modules really encourage reflection and real-world application, which fits perfectly with how I work—helping others learn and designing programs that feel grounded and useful.

What was the best part of your studies – what did you enjoy the most?

The best part of my studies was the 6-week school placement in a British primary school. It was a deeply valuable experience that gave me practical insight into how structured environments can support meaningful learning. Every session offered a new perspective about the UK education system as well as on how to thoughtfully design and facilitate learning experiences.

I focused particularly on classroom management strategies, which taught me how to create inclusive, productive spaces that support learner engagement and well-being. It helped me to understand how people learn best, adapting strategies for different needs, and continuously reflecting to improve learning outcomes.

What were your career aspirations? Do you think the experience and skills you’ve gained here have helped you in your career plans? In what way?

I aspire to become an instructional designer, someone who can design learning experiences that really connect with people: engaging, accessible, and built around what learners actually need. My time in the MA Education program has played a big role in shaping that goal. Through designing lessons and exploring how people learn in different settings, I’ve gained a clearer understanding of how to structure content in ways that are meaningful and impactful.

What’s made this journey even more valuable is the mix of theory, hands-on teaching, and reflective practice. It’s helped me see not just what to create, but why it matters—and how to design learning that’s both informative and empowering.

Do you have any noteworthy achievements from your study at the School of Education that you can tell us about?
One of the most meaningful achievements during my time in School of Education was being selected for an international internship in Armenia. I had the chance to engage with the MA TEFL programme at the American University of Armenia, where I joined focused lectures, got detailed feedback on my lesson planning and teaching, and even took part in some really fun social activities.

Beyond the classroom, I observed how learning content was designed, delivered, and adapted to diverse student needs. It gave me a clearer picture of what effective instruction looks like and strengthened my passion for creating impactful learning experiences.
It was a short internship, but truly a transformative and memorable journey.

What was your experience of the facilities, the staff, your peers, the city of Leeds, and the Yorkshire region?

I’m truly grateful I chose to study at the University of Leeds and live in this city—no regrets at all. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported, both as an international student and as a Muslim. The School of Education, along with the staff, lecturers, tutors, my classmates and the city itself are vibrant, diverse, and inclusive.

The university provides great facilities that really support learning and growth. There are plenty of halal food options, accessible prayer rooms, a 24-hour library, academic support through both the School and the library, and even a Language Zone that help language skills. The city is also full of events and beautiful places to explore, with affordable living and easy access across the UK. Most of all, I made meaningful friendships and it’s been the perfect environment to support my academic journey.

Are there any experiences outside of your studies that you have particularly enjoyed?

One of the most fulfilling experiences outside of my academic studies was volunteering as a Language Group Leader in the Language Zone. This role allowed me to facilitate English language learning sessions for international students, helping them build confidence in everyday communication. It also gave me the opportunity to design engaging learning activities, support peer development, and create an inclusive environment for learners from diverse backgrounds.

Would you recommend the School of Education to others who are considering studying here?

Of course I would highly recommend the School of Education at the University of Leeds. The program is thoughtfully designed, with a balance between theory and practice that supports both academic and professional growth. You will get the flexibility to choose elective modules that align with your interests and career aspirations, whether you're passionate about language teaching, special needs education, learning and development, or broader educational practice. The learning environment is inclusive and supportive, and the experiences, both in and beyond the classroom, really prepare you to make a meaningful contribution in your chosen field!