I am a final year student, currently studying English at [University name]. I am predicted to achieve a high 2:1.

I was inspired to teach by my own experiencesduring mytime in education, in particular my English teachers throughout secondary school. As a child, I was never instilled with a natural love of reading, especially when it came to the classics. However, the passion and enthusiasm displayed by tutors helped me overcome my cynicism and really develop a diverse range of literary influences.

Where I had initially struggled with the subject, a combination of easy-to-understand and relatable lessons, and a series of one-to-one sessions on particular topics I found difficult (poetry, for example), led to a drastic improvement in my grades. As a result, I achieved an A grade in my English Literature A level, and went on to study English at university.

My desire to get into teaching only increased during my time at university. Even when studying modules which took me outside of my comfort zone, such as linguistics or creative writing, the dedication of my tutors kept me engaged. I even decided to pursue creative writing in my second year, purely based on the excellent series of seminars I attended during my first year.

Aside from my education, I have undertaken several voluntary positons which have allowed me to build my experience, and work with children on a daily basis.

Examples of these voluntary positions include working with a local kids youth theatre group for the past two years, as well as three months spent as a teaching assistant in Nairobi, which I did as part of my gap year.

During the latter, I worked with young people between the ages of five and eleven in a small village school. Seeing how much education meant to these children really demonstrated to me how teaching can make a real difference to people’s lives – whatever their background or situation. This only helped reinforce my own ambitions to work in education full-time.

Coupled with my own passion for a wide range of different literary styles, I hope my interest in teaching will lead to a career as an English Literature teacher.

What really interests me about studying Law at [University name] is your excellent reputation within the industry, and the feedback I’ve received from students who have previously completed one of your PGCE courses.

I have also looked a number of impressive case studies written by those who have gone through a similar journey from their undergraduate degree, and have experienced a great degree of success when it comes to securing an employer.

Additionally, I have read many research papers provided by both your faculty members and students, which were at an extremely high level. I was particularly impressed by the breadth of content produced, as well as the quantity.

I am confident I can demonstrate the drive, ambition and expertise to position myself as the perfect student to study at your institution.

Thanks for your consideration.

PGCE personal statement by reed.co.uk