School of Social Sciences and Professions student profiles content store_hidden Shahera Moustafa Our students and alumni

Work experience in the banking industry certainly helps if you want to teach maths – and that's exactly where Shahera Moustafa began her career. She's now decided to change direction to study for a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics at London Met. We find out more. 

Can you tell us a little bit about your background, and what brought you to London Met in particular?

I am originally from Egypt, where I hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting and an MBA. I worked in the banking sector for nine years, and then decided to come to London Met after a recommendation from a family member.

What made you want to study in London?

I found that in London, there were various learning opportunities available to all ages and backgrounds. 

What's your favourite part of the course so far and why?

The interactions with my course leader and my classmates – I’m learning a lot from my teacher and also from observing my class mates.

Can you tell us about any work-related experience or placements you've done as part of the course?

I started my first placement in October – I accepted a school referred by the University, although the travel to the school is long, which I found challenging. But I've found the school environment really supportive. I am following the training cycle planned by the University for us, which is based on a weekly mentor meeting. My mentor is assigned to me by the school, and we work together on current and future targets. The reflection I am getting from my mentor and colleagues is helping my experience. I had a two-week induction where I was building a profile of the school – getting to know it, my timetable, observing classes and focusing on how teachers manage behavioural issues with students. Now, I've started teaching full lessons and soon will be having an observation visit from my University tutor. 

I've found the placement a great step towards becoming a qualified teacher, where I am applying the curriculum and learning how to adapt the topics to different needs. 

The placement will finish with the term break for Christmas holiday – and then I am looking forward to my second placement in February. 

What's been most challenging about being a student?

Trying to remember the study materials I read before – but a long time ago!

How have you found the professors / teachers?

I’ve found them to be supportive / engaging / offering great guidance and advice.

What drives you?

Learning.

What are you most proud of in your life so far?

My ongoing education.

Do you have a favourite place within the University and why?

The Uni cafe – we gather together as colleagues and friends and reflect on our performance and studies.

Have you used any of the services at London Met – and if so, how helpful have they been?

I was referred to the Student Money and Advice service. I am pleased by how they processed my inquiry – there was great care and support.

Are you a member of any clubs and societies here – can you tell us more if so?

I am one of the PGCE maths secondary marketing team.

Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of uni.

• organising – it helps me in thinking better and prioritising my tasks 
• searching math topics
• reading

What's your plan when you graduate, and how do you think London Met will help you succeed in this?

I’d like to work as a qualified maths teacher. London Met is guiding me through this academic and professional journey to achieve my dream and offering channels to explore and develop.

Any tips for students new to London Met?

Navigate the London Met website where you will find important links and information that will guide you. And enjoy being a London Met student!

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Find out more about teaching courses at London Met.