Chemistry key facts and case study

Key facts about the chemistry enhancement course

Case study

Patsy Emptage, 48, has just finished a chemistry enhancement course at Keele University. Now, she’s looking forward to her PGCE – with confidence.

‘Chemistry was my first love; as a kid, I was always reading about science. But I left school at 16 to join the family hairdressing business. I started studying again so I could help my own children with their homework, and I also started helping out at the local school. One day I helped a year 6 pupil finally figure out how to subtract. I was almost moved to tears.

‘After that, I decided to do my English and maths GCSEs, and a B unit in maths. Then I did a foundation year in biology and chemistry, and a degree in neuroscience. I’ve just taken things one step at a time and really enjoyed my studies.
 
‘I first tried to get on to a science PGCE when I graduated in 2002, but was told my degree didn’t contain enough science so teaching went on the back burner. Then last September I got a leaflet about an open day at Edge Hill College and my enthusiasm came flooding back. I went along and found out about enhancement courses, then applied to do chemistry at Keele.

‘The course has given me so much more than just subject knowledge. We’ve spent time in school, and there have been lab sessions and simulated lessons. I’ve also done chemistry in the community sessions at the Potteries Museum in Stoke and at Salter’s festival. Now I feel really confident about becoming a teacher, and I can’t wait to start my PGCE. I just want to be the best science teacher I can.’