UWTSD PGCE Student Hails Faculty’s Exceptional Support
Liah Evans, a student at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional support provided by the PGCE course during what she describes as one of the most challenging and transformative years of her life.
After graduating in 2019 with a BA Early Years: Practitioner degree, Liah decided to return to the university to pursue her PGCE, confident that coming back to her academic home was the right decision. Throughout her journey, she encountered the typical challenges of teacher training—demanding deadlines, academic pressures, and lesson observations. Elected as a class representative, she embraced the opportunity to support and advocate for her fellow students.
However, Liah’s academic challenges were compounded by deeply personal obstacles. At the beginning of her course, a close family member was diagnosed with a long-term illness. She said:
“I had no idea how I was going to combat the emotional turmoil, being a busy mother to my gorgeous two year old son Oliver and being the best student-teacher I could be. The support I was given by Jayne and Lil as well as my classmates, got me through the first term.”
Midway through the academic year, just as she began to find balance, her son was referred to the neurodivergent team due to a severe speech delay and a potential autism diagnosis. The emotional and practical demands of this situation made it difficult to manage the intense workload of teacher training. Yet, thanks to the compassion, understanding, and guidance of the PGCE team, she persevered in her pursuit of becoming a teacher—a lifelong dream.
Lecturer Jayne Morgan’s dedication and empathetic approach played a crucial role in this journey. By providing flexibility, a listening ear, and access to additional resources, Jayne ensured that Liah could prioritise her family’s needs while continuing to excel academically. Liah said:
“The culture of care and understanding within the PGCE faculty at UWTSD has reinforced my belief in the power of education—not just as a tool for academic achievement, but as a community of support and encouragement. The faculty’s commitment to student well-being is a testament to their dedication to developing resilient and compassionate educators.”
As Liah nears the completion of her PGCE, she remains deeply grateful to the entire PGCE team. Their support has not only helped her succeed academically but has also shaped her vision for creating nurturing and inclusive environments for her future students.
UWTSD lecturer Jayne Morgan said:
“The Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Department believe that every student is different. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds, family situations and ages. We are committed to supporting each student as they become the best teacher they can be so they can make their own unique contribution to education in Wales.”
