Lucy's Chester Made Story: How staff support led to inspiring future students

My time at the University of Chester shaped me in ways I never expected. What stood out the most was the people. The lecturers were incredibly supportive and passionate, and while they always remained professional, they became mentors and role models who genuinely cared about our journeys. They saw potential in me that I didn't yet recognise in myself and helped me discover a love for teaching that has stayed with me ever since. Even now, they are people I know I could turn to for guidance, which says so much about the impact they had.

One of the most defining experiences during my course was a placement I requested in my third year. I wanted to step outside the typical setting and experience teaching in a private school, and the placement team fully supported this ambition. They found me a school in Chester, and that opportunity completely changed my confidence and perspective. It allowed me to try new ideas, challenge myself and prepare for the reality of teaching. Off the back of that placement, I was offered a role working at the school's holiday sports club, which felt like a huge moment for me as an aspiring PE teacher. It reassured me that I was on the right path and gave me the chance to grow before stepping into my career.

Chester quickly became more than just a place to study; it became a home away from home. Moving away was daunting, but the city, the University and the people made it feel safe, exciting and full of opportunity. One of my proudest and most emotional memories was delivering a speech at my graduation in Chester Cathedral. Standing there, speaking in front of hundreds of people in such a beautiful and historic place, was a moment I will carry with me forever. The picture featured here is a picture of me with my best friend from the course and my lecturers straight after delivering my speech.

Every time I walk past the Cathedral, I am reminded of how far I came during my time at Chester and the confidence I gained along the way. That experience still impacts me today, particularly in my role delivering assemblies and speaking confidently within school.

Chester didn't just prepare me for a career; it helped me believe in myself. Just 18 months after completing my PGCE, I am now incredibly proud to be Head of PE in a high school in Stoke. It's something I never thought would be possible so early in my career, but the passion, resilience and confidence Chester gave me allowed me to pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. I feel grateful for every experience, every challenge and every person who played a part in my journey. Chester will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever be proud to say that it is where I found my passion, my confidence and the path that led me to where I am today.

What I love most about my role now is the opportunity to make a genuine difference to young people every single day. PE is so much more than sport; it is about confidence, resilience, teamwork and giving students a space where they feel successful and valued. Seeing students grow in confidence, discover activities they enjoy and develop skills that go far beyond the sports hall is what makes the job so special. Whether it is supporting students who struggle with confidence, creating leadership opportunities, or helping young people experience success for the first time, those moments remind me why I chose this career.

I truly believe my work makes a difference, not just physically but emotionally and socially for the students I teach. For some young people, PE is the place where they feel happiest, most confident or most motivated to attend school, and being part of creating that environment is something I never take for granted. Leading a department also allows me to shape opportunities on a wider scale, ensuring sport and physical activity remain inclusive, supportive and inspiring for all students.

If I could offer advice to current or future students, it would be to embrace every opportunity, even the ones that feel slightly outside your comfort zone. Some of the experiences that shaped me the most – placements, public speaking and leadership opportunities – were the ones that initially felt daunting. Trust the process, ask questions, build relationships and believe in your own potential, even when you feel unsure. Growth often happens in the moments where you challenge yourself the most.

Being a Chester graduate means carrying confidence, pride and a strong sense of belonging. Chester is where I discovered my passion, built lifelong relationships and developed the belief that I was capable of achieving more than I thought possible. It will always feel like a home away from home, and I am incredibly proud that my journey started there.