My Journey From Textiles to Teaching at Huddersfield

Why I Chose to Study at Huddersfield 

I chose to study at the University of Huddersfield for a couple of reasons. I was interested in studying textile crafts and art, and at the time, Huddersfield was the only university in West Yorkshire offering a textiles degree that combined both craft and art elements, with the option to graduate with either a BA or a BSc. 

When I attended the Open Day, everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I loved the atmosphere, and the campus felt just the right size and not overwhelming. I immediately felt like a student who mattered, not just one among thousands. 

During my six years of study at Huddersfield, I worked as a Student Ambassador - a role I absolutely loved. It gave me the opportunity to welcome visitors, prospective students, their families and new students to campus, and help them feel the same warmth and sense of belonging that I experienced on my first visit. It was also a great opportunity to gain experience working with school and college students during HE experience days, which was especially helpful as my goal at the end of my studies was to become a teacher. 

After completing my undergraduate degree, I chose to continue at Huddersfield for my Master’s and PGCE because I had enjoyed my time here so much. I knew the campus well, felt comfortable in the environment, and had confidence that the University would continue to support me whenever I needed it. 

The Most Valuable Parts of My Experience 

One of the most valuable parts of my time at Huddersfield was how much I grew as a person. I gained confidence, self-belief and a sense of independence, while still feeling supported by my tutors. I was given the freedom to take ownership of my learning, which helped me develop strong problem-solving, analytical and reflective practice skills, and master my creativity and innovative practice - all of which have been invaluable for employment and teaching. 

Working as a Student Ambassador also helped build my confidence in public speaking and interacting with others, which was excellent preparation for becoming a teacher. One of the best things about the role was meeting students from a wide range of courses and building friendships beyond my own subject area. It made my experience feel more connected and inclusive, and my world at university never felt small or isolated. 

Life After Huddersfield 

I completed my PGCE in Lifelong Learning in July 2025, and I have been offered two part-time roles: one as a Fashion and Textiles Lecturer at an arts institution in Leeds, and another as an instructor teaching creative skills for life and work to SEND learners in Barnsley. 

My time at university helped prepare me for employment by giving me the self-belief, encouragement and independence to feel confident in my ability to work as an educator. The University of Huddersfield is extremely supportive, offering access to health and wellbeing services, the careers centre, and learning and academic support from the Academic Skills team. This made me feel I was never alone - if I ever felt overwhelmed, there was always a strong support network available. 

My tutors on both my undergraduate and Master’s degrees shared a wealth of knowledge and expertise that helped me refine and master my own practice. The tutors on my PGCE course have also been amazing - their experience and skill in modelling effective teaching practices have greatly informed my own approach to teaching. 

I feel so blessed to have had these opportunities. I have worked incredibly hard over the past six years to reach this point, and I am now looking forward to continuing my journey in employment, growing my teaching practice, and supporting my learners in the same way I was supported. 

My Advice for Postgraduate Study 

My advice to anyone considering postgraduate study would be to go for it, but go in with an open mind and a willingness to grow. Be prepared to fully commit. Whether you study full-time or part-time, it’s important to recognise that the course is fast-paced and requires good organisation and planning to balance alongside your lifestyle. The effort you put in is what you will get out of it. 

Postgraduate study is a fantastic opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and build confidence in your own voice and practice. It can be challenging at times, but the support from tutors and the University makes a big difference. 

Make the most of everything that is offered - from lectures, tutorials and workshops to academic support, wellbeing services and networking opportunities. Most importantly, believe in yourself and enjoy the journey; it is a time of real personal and professional development.