FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When will I find out which school I will be working in for my placements?

We aim to provide students with their placement locations once these have been confirmed with the schools. This is typically well before the placement starts. You will be given an opportunity to talk to and meet your school mentor before the start of the placement. Detailed briefings are held each year prior to starting.

What happens if I miss classes due to illness or personal difficulties?

We understand that everyone will face some difficulties now and again and we aim to be flexible. We ask that you communicate any absence to your lecturers as soon as possible, along with the reasons and how you will catch up on any missed learning. You are encouraged to discuss ongoing issues with your personal academic tutor or unit coordinator.

Who can help me with my assessments?

The academic team is always available to guide you with your assessments. All assessments will be thoroughly explained during session time using the assignment brief document. You can also book a tutorial with your unit lecturer to discuss your plans. If you need more time to complete an assignment, please contact the Student Engagement and Mitigation team (SEAM) who deal with extensions for assessments. Their email is mitigation@beds.ac.uk. Support is also available from the team in our Study Hub

Will I be able to practise skills before I attend my placement?

Yes! You will have many opportunities to observe your lecturers modelling good practice, as well as peer teaching opportunities in class. ‘Microteaching’ is also built into the programme where you will have the support to collaboratively plan, teach and reflect on experiences with pupils who will come to the university. On your placement, you will always progress from observation of other teachers to small group and co-teaching before you eventually teach a full class.

What support do you provide for learning differences such as dyslexia?

There is plenty of help available. You may be eligible for a Learning and Teaching Agreement, where you can discuss any reasonable adjustments needed for classroom learning and examinations. If you need more help, you can talk to your personal academic tutor or contact Student Support or the Study Hub.

Are there clubs and activities I can get involved with?

Yes! All Bedfordshire students are members of the Students’ Union (SU) by default. The SU has lots of sports clubs, activities and social events. If you don’t find a club or society that appeals, you can apply for funding to start you own by emailing beds.su@beds.ac.uk