MA Education

University experience and support

The University supported Annabelle by making her one of its sponsored athletes providing her with greater flexibility and access to sporting facilities and opportunities. This helped her develop a broad and transferable set of skills and experience.

Annabelle says, 'Being an athlete and studying was challenging, but the University and my lecturers were so supportive. Being made a sponsored athlete also came with a bunch of perks. All this support and the opportunities that the University provided helped me to build the skills and confidence I needed to be truly successful in my job today.'

Annabelle currently works as one of the Education Liaison Coordinators at Herts. Having established fantastic contacts within the University, her student activities meant she could seamlessly progress into a professional role that complimented many of her skills and interests.

'I always assumed that I would do something within sport, but when it came to my final year in BSc Sport Studies, I had found my passion for Coach Education. During my MA in Education at the University, I discovered another passion for helping others and working with student athletes.'

Opportunities to explore

The University is committed to recognising talent in its students and offering any exciting opportunities that can enrich their studies and further their careers. Annabelle's lecturers' encouraged her to explore her passion for research which inspired her to continue with postgraduate study. Most impressively, the University helped her win its first BUCS gold medal in target shooting, which she says 'felt amazing as I was the only one in the team!'

Annabelle's advice for new and current students is to 'Do things that are out of your comfort zone because the skills and experiences you develop may just be the thing that your employer is looking for. Take all of the opportunities you can. I thought I was going to be an athlete forever, then I discovered coaching. I am very lucky that my first "proper" job is something that I absolutely love but I am still able to continue coaching. This summer I am helping coach a target shooting national team in the biggest junior, under 21, competition in the country.'

Making a big impact

Dr Jeffery Quaye OBE has had a significant impact on education since he studied at Herts. He was the Headteacher for the City of London Academy (Southwark) before joining the Aspirations Academies Trust as their Director of Standards and Effectiveness. After serving as a Regional CEO for the Trust, he then became their National Director of Education and Standards in 2020.

Such is his reputation in the sector, he has also advised the UK government on education policy, is a serving lead Inspector of schools, Ofqual’s external expert for mathematics and education, and is a Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching, The College of Teachers UK, and the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce. Dr Quaye was awarded an OBE for his outstanding services to the education sector in the New Year Honours 2023 List.

Degrees valued by employers

Dr Quaye began his first course at Herts in 2000, where he studied BEng (Hons) Electrical and Electronic Engineering. He chose Herts for its ‘fantastic reputation for engineering’ and adds, ‘Their degrees are valued by employers. Staff are world-class experts in their fields and are from a mix of diverse backgrounds. You get great opportunities to learn in a challenging, innovative, and thriving atmosphere that helps you develop as an intellectual and individual.’

After completing his undergraduate degree in 2003, Dr Quaye then achieved a PGCE (Secondary Mathematics) and an MA Education. He says, ‘The range of courses I studied at Herts has equipped me well for my career and current role. They provided me with a great deal of knowledge and transferable skills, such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. This, combined with a strong work ethic, has moulded me into a well-rounded individual.’

Special memories

Because he completed three courses at Herts, Dr Quaye was able to attend graduation at the historic St Albans Cathedral on three separate occasions, which he describes as a ‘special experience’.

Like many students, he also enjoyed spending time in the Learning Resources Centres. He was also a Student Representative for the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department.

Dr Quaye continues to stay connected with his lecturers too. He says, ‘These friendships have been beneficial for my academic development and career advancement, without a doubt. They have helped me drive my personal growth.’

Tips for success

To succeed, Dr Quaye says you should ‘follow fields that spark your interest.’ He adds, ‘It is important to give time and maximum effort to deepen your knowledge and understanding of your chosen area. Be adaptable too and develop the disposition of a lifelong learner. Explore, discover, and experience Herts. Learn something new every day and demonstrate your commitment to excellence.’