Student Spotlight - Liam Clayton
Food and drink are very important to Scotland, and it is one of the largest industry sectors. It creates jobs and wealth, impacts on health and sustainability, and helps attract people to visit Scotland.
Our Food, Nutrition and Textiles Education degree is aimed at those wishing to pursue a career as a Home Economics teacher in a secondary school. This contemporary programme is unique in Scotland as it combines academic study in food, nutrition, textiles, and education with vocational training as a teacher in secondary schools within the four-year programme of study.
“Home Economics gives young people skills and practical knowledge that will stay with them for life. It also opens doors to a range of potential careers and interests from fashion and hospitality to health and nutrition.” – Teach in Scotland
We caught up with one of our current degree students, to find out how he is getting on 👇
What is your name, and where are you from?
My name is Liam, and I am a student from Edinburgh.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth, and what year are you currently in?
I am currently in my 3rd year of studying for a BA (Hons) Food Nutrition and Textiles Education - a course set up by the Scottish Government to recruit a new generation of secondary school Home Economics teachers.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I first heard about UHI Perth when I was researching possible entries into this exact job role and this course was perfect.
What were you doing before you came to college?
Before starting the course, I was working as a pupil support assistant at a high school in Edinburgh, which I have since been able to return to part-time as I continue to study. Having the ongoing experiences and relationships while I study has definitely been useful to me.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
The more I compared the different course options to get me into teaching, this one allowed me to enter with qualifications I already had and would teach me everything I needed to know to be a successful teacher. It seemed to be an excellent fit!
What is your favourite thing about the course?
I think my favourite thing about the course is the people. In a subject like this, your classmates very much make or break the experience, and everyone is so kind and supportive of each other and bring new experiences to the table.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
During first year, we were to undertake industry-based work placements and I chose to work as a chocolatier. Unfortunately, due to covid, we weren’t able to go on this placement, but we did it in different ways. I chose to set up a mock chocolatier business and designed and made different luxury chocolate products. Even years later, this has still been one of the most fun things I can remember doing.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
Teaching placements have been one of the main out-of-class experiences so far that are fundamental for future teaching practices. They are the time and place to make mistakes and learn from them to be better prepared for going to work.
Have you undertaken a placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
I have so far completed two teaching placements – both very different schools and experiences – and have three more to go: one in the Spring and two next year.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
They have been extremely supportive. The subject specialist lecturers for food and textile studies have been fantastic and are constantly encouraging and motivating to be around. Kirstie even allowed me to help out with evening classes teaching textiles in order to build my confidence and skills even further!
The previous Home Economics teachers, who take on the education modules, are consistent in providing support and passing on their wisdom and are very approachable.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I managed to rethread an overlocker without throwing it across the room, if that counts? They’re basically big sewing machines which are used to finish edges of fabric but have four spools of thread from the top that all lock into each other. When they come unthreaded… good luck.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
Even though I live and commute from Edinburgh every week, the campus is extremely easy to access and the range of facilities they offer across the buildings are great. I use the library after classes once a week for a couple of hours to catch up on anything I need to. I know there’s gym facilities in the other buildings that I am yet to visit, but from touring the campus and by hearing from other students, I know they are worthwhile ventures!
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I have really enjoyed it so far and I’m looking forward to the next eighteen months of studies. The bakery module in first year has been a highlight, despite being much more of a challenge to me, as I got to make my own two-tier cake with a Scottish decorative theme.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of college?
I also enjoy music, both listening to and writing. I’m a singer/songwriter and like to spend time writing, recording, and performing music. Check it out on Spotify: Liam T. Clayton. I also love going to gigs and travelling at home and abroad to see some of my favourite artists play live!
What are your future career plans?
In a year and a half, I will be qualified as a Home Economics teacher so will be teaching in high schools until I retire (whatever age they change it to, by then!).
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
If you are thinking about studying at UHI Perth, just do it. The campus is brilliant, the facilities and teaching are great, and the experience will be worth every second!
Studying at UHI Perth gives you the perfect opportunity towards securing a successful future. Find your new start and apply now for 2023.
