For Lauren, the adult education journey was something that needed to fit in with her day-to-day life.
She had completed a Level 3 Teaching Assistant Apprenticeship and was looking at her next steps.
Unable to give up work to study full-time, Lauren decided to attend an open event at Stockton Riverside College and speak with the team to see if further education could work for her.
After face-to-face conversations, she enrolled on the Foundation Degree in Supporting Teaching and Learning.
When asked about her learner experience, Lauren said: “The teachers are great, supportive, and approachable. Nothing ever felt like a burden.”
After completing her two-year foundation degree, she felt it was a natural progression to enrol on the BA (Hons) Education and Training, which she felt confident she would be able to complete. This would turn her foundation degree into a full degree after just one further year of study.
After enrolling, Lauren started her new course. She was in college once a week from 1-9pm and continued working full-time hours around her studies.
Class sizes were small, and this allowed the group to work in a different setting from a typical classroom. She said: “It was nice that we worked in study pods to discuss and debate in class.”
Lauren graduated from her BA in November and is now in her final stage of completing a teacher training programme, which will earn her teaching status. She hopes to start work as a teacher in September 2026.
When asked what advice she would give to other adults who may be in a similar situation to her, she said: “There’s always a way to overcome issues and barriers, and it’s always worth it in the end.”
Huge congratulations, Lauren!
To learn more about our adult teaching courses, visit our website: FdA Supporting Teaching and Learning | Stockton Riverside College
Alternatively, attend our upcoming Open Event on Thursday 12th February from 5-7pm. Book your place online: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/stockton-riverside-college-open-event-february-2026-tickets-1975741141941?aff=oddtdtcreator
