The class of 2013 are celebrating their first milestone graduversary this year!
Ten years since graduation, sorry if this fact makes you feel a bit old!
To celebrate we have put together a photo album of the best of class of 2013 graduation images. See if you can spot yourself or your classmates.
See the photo archive here
To see our album, first join the Cumbria Network.
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We caught up with a couple of alumni from 2013 to see what they have been up to since graduation…
Name
Helen McCarrick
known name as a student
Helen Croft
Which campus did you study at?
Lancaster
What years did you study with us?
2010 to 2013
What did you study and why did you pick this course?
I studied the three-year Primary Education with QTS. I had always wanted to be a teacher so this was perfect for me!!
Do you remember any tutors? Did you have any favourites, if so, what made them special?
Yes I do - my Maths tutor John Goodwin!! He was just a fantastic person, would give real life examples of classroom teaching and lots of practical resources and ideas to take into teaching with us.
Who were your friends, have you stayed in touch?
I still see one of my closest friends who I lived with since first year, she came to my wedding last year! I think there is something so special about university relationships, the circumstances of being thrown together, growing up and experiencing a lot of 'firsts' whilst being away from home. I loved making friends at university.
What did you do in your spare time as a student?
I used to love shopping! Popping down to the city for some me time was important to me.
Can you remember any student traditions, did you take part in them?
Always pub golf!! Used to love these events.
Were you part of any sports groups, clubs or societies?
I was a student ambassador for all three years. I loved sharing my experiences with prospective students and giving hints and tips when I volunteered at welcome events.
What is your fondest memory of your time as a student?
Just living some of my best life experiences and making memories that will stay with me forever!
Job title
Primary school teacher
Current Employer
St George's, Westhoughton, Bolton
Briefly explain what your job entails
Year 3 teacher, head of History and Geography. Eco Council leader.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Seeing children flourish and get that 'lightbulb moment'. Those precious few seconds are the best ones.
What were your career ambitions when you started studying and do you think that you have achieved them?
To be a good teacher and I have definitely achieved this.
How did going to university influence your life?
It made me become more independent - I had always been a home bird so to fly the nest was very good for me.
What are you most proud of?
Standing in Carlisle Cathedral on graduation day with all my friends, we'd done it together!!
What are your ambitions for the future?
I’d like to be a deputy head; I'm currently applying for courses and qualifications to help me achieve this goal.
Name
Liam Platt
Which campus did you study at?
Lancaster
What years did you study with us?
2010 to 2013
What did you study?
Primary Education - 3 Year BA (Hons)
What did you do in your spare time as a student?
Went out almost every night!
What is your fondest memory of your time as a student?
Some of the placements were really enjoyable. Sharing journeys with other students to schools up in Cumbria. Hawkshead and Kirkoswald spring to mind as places where we shared some interesting journeys to.
Job title
Headteacher
Current Employer
Barlby Bridge Community Primary School
Briefly explain what your job entails
10 years after completing my university degree, I have just taken over a one form entry primary school in Selby.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Interacting with the children on a daily basis and having the opportunity to build a team of colleagues who enjoy teaching as much as I do. Seeing staff and pupils come to a place where they enjoy being every day is something I will be striving to achieve in my new school.
What were your career ambitions when you started studying and do you think that you have achieved them?
I always wanted to work up to senior leadership and having become a headteacher this year I have certainly achieved my ambitions. Having nearly quit uni in my second year due to difficult personal circumstances, I am proud of the journey I have been on to get to where I am today.
How did going to university influence your life?
The placements at university refocused my desire to be a teacher. I particularly remember going to St Patrick's in Kendal and enjoying it so much that I knuckled down and focused on completing my last 18 months at university.
What are you most proud of?
Sticking with teaching after a difficult second year, and then progressing to the position I am in today.
What are your ambitions for the future?
Develop a school where everybody, staff and pupils, enjoy coming to every day.
Did you graduate in 2013, or perhaps you are celebrating a 20, 30, or 40 years anniversary this year? Whatever year you graduated, we would love to hear your student memories… Complete the form HERE.