All change!

Since I started my OU studying back in September 2008, I have always wanted to gain my degree in Modern Language Studies - I thought it would be better to have a named degree and would give me more flexibility for future career moves. However, that meant studying through until October 2012 so that my application for PGCE would be to start in 2013 (which seems a long way off!) However, having attended the Primary PGCE open day at my local university recently, I have now changed my mind! I came back from the day feeling really invigorated to get on with my training and, having looked at the options, have now decided to go for a BSc Open degree. This means that I can actually finish my studying in June 2012, so can apply this autumn for a PGCE place starting September 2012.

Changing to an Open degree also means that I have more flexibility for my final level 3 course, as (providing I pass all this years courses!) I will only need 60 credits at level 3 to complete my total of 360 credits for an Honours degree. The English course that I was going to take was part of the named degree, but having searched the OU prospectus I have found a level 3 Children's Literature course which starts in October and which would complete my degree. It looks like a really interesting course and I have already been on Amazon looking for the set books, although I haven't yet ordered them as I know I will want to start reading as soon as they arrive and I have 3 other courses to get through first! I also think that a children's literature course will be useful for a prospective Primary school teacher!

I have spoken to the university and to my current Headteacher about my change of plans and both said that an Open degree wouldn't have an adverse affect on my application for the PGCE or on future job applications. My Head is also going to get in touch with people she knows at other schools so that I can arrange to do some observations in different types of schools - it will all help with my application!

So, it's down to me now to get a good degree result, organise some more school observations and put together a personal statement that will impress the university! I'm pleased that I have decided to change courses and am looking forward to the challenges ahead.