Student Spotlight - Jemima Towers
“This course combines my interests perfectly and offers a clear path into teaching.”
The Food, Nutrition and Textiles Education degree at UHI Perth 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. Current student, Jemima, took some time out to share why she felt this course was ideal for her.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Jemima Towers, and I’m from Lancashire, England.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth?
I’m currently studying BA (Hons) Food, Nutrition and Textiles Education. I finished my third year at the end of May.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I discovered UHI Perth while researching universities that offered specialised courses in home economics and teacher training. I was really drawn to the practical, career-focused nature of the course here. This degree combines every area I enjoy and plays to my strengths and interests.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
Before I joined UHI Perth, I was studying at sixth form during the covid lockdown - completing my A levels in Psychology, English language and photography. I decided to complete a gap year after my A-levels, in which I worked full-time at an estate agents selling rural properties. This provided me with lots of transferable skills.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I’ve always been passionate about food, nutrition, and helping others learn life skills. My parents and grandparents cooked everything from scratch. My grandparents taught me how to make gooseberry pie, scones, pineapple upside down and many more delicious recipes. At home, Mum would make all my Halloween costumes and make homemade sewn gifts for party bags at my birthday parties. I have continued the family tradition of cooking, baking, sewing and the love and importance of eating nourishing and nutrient-rich foods. This course combines my interests perfectly and offers a clear path into teaching.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course is how hands-on and practical it is. Everything we learn in lectures applies to real life, industry and the classroom. Our course is small, so the lecturers know us as individuals rather than a number in a huge lecture theatre. This enables personalised and differentiated learning as per individuals' needs.
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
Yes, in my first year, we had to organise an industry placement. I was lucky enough to go to the Kellogg’s factory in Manchester for five weeks. I was part of the Food Research and Development Team, where recipes were formulated and adapted. I learnt so much during my time there, which will benefit my future teaching career greatly.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I’ve gained a strong foundation in cooking, baking, nutrition, textiles, and pedagogy, but also essential soft skills like communication, organisation, and resilience. The four school placements so far have helped me understand classroom dynamics and how to adapt to different learners’ needs.
Have you undertaken a school placement or work experience whilst at UHI Perth?
Yes, I’ve done several placements in secondary schools across Scotland. They’ve involved lesson planning, delivering practical classes, assessing pupil work, and managing classroom behaviour. I thoroughly enjoyed these experiences; they gave me a real taste of what full-time teaching will be like. I have also completed a five-week industry placement at Kellogg’s as mentioned above.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Absolutely. The lecturers are approachable, understanding, and passionate about what they teach. The lecturers know us as individuals and are always willing to help with any problems.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I’ve had the chance to represent my class and be student rep. I have worked hard and overcome challenges after being diagnosed with dyslexia in my first year of university. I have done well on placements and in assessments.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
The campus is modern and well-equipped, especially the kitchen and textile rooms. It’s a great environment to learn in, and the smaller class sizes mean you get more one-to-one support.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Yes, I’ve really enjoyed my time here. The sense of community is lovely, and there have been lots of great memories. My most recent highlight is when I organised a bake sale and wheelchair basketball event to raise awareness of disability sports and inclusion.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
Outside of my studies, I enjoy running, baking, socialising and exploring the outdoors. I have recently moved to Edinburgh, which has been the best move!
Once you have successfully completed this course you will be offered an induction year teaching post within the home economics department of a secondary school. Are you looking forward to this? Do you think this course at UHI Perth will have set you up to have a successful start as a teacher?
Yes, I’m really looking forward to the induction year. I feel well-prepared thanks to the course at UHI Perth. The combination of theory and practical experience has given me the tools I need to hopefully succeed.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
It’s a great choice if you value small class sizes, strong student support, and flexible learning. Get involved in campus life and don’t hesitate to ask for help - staff are supportive and approachable. Visit an open day if you can!
