Clearing helps Kingston University primary education student discover her passion for teaching

A primary education student, who applied to study at Kingston University through Clearing, has said the teacher training she has undertaken has set her up perfectly to be a primary school teacher. 

Esther Filani joined the Primary Education (QTS) BA (Hons) course after calling the University’s Clearing hotline in 2024 following a change in career direction having previously studied graphic design.

Before joining Kingston University, the 26-year-old from Croydon had spent the previous four and half years working in a nursery, where she developed her passion for working with children. 

“I wanted to further my knowledge and work with higher age children,” she said. ”This course was perfect as it has given me great placements at local schools alongside vital information around child development, inclusive practice and safeguarding – I love being able to have an impact on children’s lives and making a difference.”

Going into the third and final year of her degree, Esther chose Kingston University after seeing its strong performance for teacher training in the university league tables and was also attracted to the leafy location at Kingston Hill campus and variety of placements on offer.

“I completed a placement with a year two class in my first year and have just finished teaching a year five class,” she said. “It’s given me the opportunity to teach key stages one and two – it was a bit daunting at first but I’ve absolutely loved it and it’s really helped my knowledge and built my self-confidence.” 

Esther said the support and teaching had helped build on her existing knowledge. “My favourite lecturers include David Gumbrell, who made all my lectures so energetic and fun, and Angie Edwards who is so good at breaking down what we need to know step-by-step, “ she said.” The knowledge and skills I’ve gained around reporting safeguarding concerns and creating an inclusive learning environment for all students have been invaluable.”

Alongside her course, Esther has also been developing graduate attributes through the University’s pioneering Future Skills programme, which supports students in building knowledge, confidence and the competencies required for the world of work. She said the sessions had helped her identify areas she can improve before starting her career.

“We participated in interviews around the graduate attributes, looking at how we can apply these in everyday life. It was a useful tool to help me reflect on what I am good at and where I can improve – it has been really insightful and given me different perspectives.”

Upon graduating, Esther would like to become a primary school teacher and support children with additional needs. “The placements I have completed have confirmed my belief and passion that I can be a good teacher and help students to achieve the best they can, particularly those with special educational needs.”

Asked for her advice for students going into higher education for the first time, Esther said preparation and humility were vital traits. “Don’t be nervous –  everyone is in the same boat,” she said. “There is no such things as a stupid question, the lecturers are there to make sure you succeed in your future career.”

• Find out more about studying Primary Education (QTS) BA (Hons) at Kingston University.
• Find out more about Kingston University's sector-leading Future Skills programme.
• Kingston University's Clearing hotline is open on Thursday 13 August from 8am to 7pm, Friday 14 August from 8.30am to 6pm, Saturday 15 August from 10am to 4pm, and Monday to Friday from 9.30am until 4.30pm until the start of term, excluding Bank Holiday on Monday 29 August. 
• Potential students should call 0800 0483 334 (or +44 20 8328 1149 from outside the UK) to speak to the University's friendly and knowledgeable hotline operators who will be able to provide information on courses available and guide callers through their options.  
• Calls are free from landlines and mobiles in the UK. International call costs may vary and callers should check with their network provider. 
• Students should have their UCAS identification, if they have one, to hand and full details of qualifications, including subjects, grades, dates obtained and exam boards before calling the hotline. 
• Find out more about our Clearing Advice Day on Saturday 15 August.