Darren Parr

Since graduating I have undertaken an MA in Education with a focus on alternative education and sustainability. I am also currently working as a Freelance Tutor and closely with Articulacy UK.

For me it must be seeing the progress of students and a watching when they have a massive boost in their confidence – this is the focus of my tutoring.

Perhaps I now think more deeply and philosophically before jumping to any decisions. Everything happens for a reason or has a root cause. This is especially true with children, I consider why they may misbehave or lack confidence. They are all individual and need to be treated, and nurtured, as such.

I attempted to make the most of the facilities on offer and regularly utilised the writing café in Babbage, which was always really useful. The library services are superb and also the learning development centre offer some superb workshops. I would recommend that everyone tries to make the most of all these!

The reason I went to study at Plymouth was in order to become a school teacher, the course has changed my mind with regard to that as I feel I would be restricted as a mainstream practitioner. I now see myself within an alternative education system or even outdoor education.

I already had many years of work experience but managed to volunteer in various settings that I had no experience of previously. I needed new knowledge and qualifications and after putting in some hard work this was achieved. The academic support was amazing and I am grateful for that.