Rheanne Sanders

I knew the I wanted to go to university to study music when I started my A levels and was seriously considering a career as a music teacher. The thing that struck me about the music department at Brookes, and what ultimately led me to put this as my first choice was; firstly the personal and supportive atmosphere within the music department and the university. It offered so many sources of student support and all of the lecturers seemed to know so much about the students on their course, which was not the case in some of the other universities I went to see. Secondly they seemed to offer a really eclectic range of units, which was perfect for me as a musician and essential for a career in music education.

I really enjoyed my time at Brookes and still remember some of the lectures and seminars there. The professional practice unit and the 'student associate scheme' allowed me to gain work experience in secondary school music departments. When my degree was about to finish I applied to study a PGCE, also at Brookes, and thanks in large part to the work experience I had gained I was accepted onto the course.

I applied to start teaching the following September and was given a job at the Bicester School. The department had not had permanent staff for some time and music opportunities for students were lacking. I, along with the creative arts faculty, worked very hard for a number of years to increase instrumental lessons, improve the provision for students at KS4 and 5 and provide some amazing shows and concerts. After 3 years I was promoted to Lead in subject, and I now manage the music department. This includes the curriculum and lesson content for students, instrumental lesson provision, and extracurricular activities and concerts. I absolutely love my job and regularly talk to my sixth form students about my experience at university, which ultimately allowed me to get to where I am now.