Alumni Spotlight - Imogen Wearing
“I started as a young, naïve 17-year-old following a dream, and I left as a 21-year-old with a real passion for home economics, the teaching profession, and the wellbeing of young people.”
In this week’s blog, we meet a recent graduate who is now pursuing their dream of teaching! 👩🏫🧵
Can you introduce yourself?
Hello, my name is Imogen Wearing and I live in Cumbernauld, just outside Glasgow.
What course did you study at UHI Perth?
I studied Food, Nutrition and Textiles Education and I am a 2025 graduate.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
My mum was the first person to hear about the course at UHI Perth from a stand at the Perth Show. I looked into it with my home economics teacher, and we decided it would be a good option to add to my UCAS application.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was in my final year at high school gaining qualifications and life experience before going to university. I had known from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher, and, from S1, I had a passion for home economics.
Why did you pick this course?
The fact that the course was four years rather than five was a major factor for me. I wanted to achieve my dream as soon as possible. When I came to the open day in 2019, I loved the look of the course and the variety of topics I would be able to study.
What was your favourite thing about the course?
My favourite thing about the course was definitely the range of modules we covered. It has really prepared me to go into any school and teach any national qualification a home economics department could offer. The FNTE lecturing team were also incredible and have a real passion for what they do.
Were there any standout/memorable moments from your course?
I have so many memories from my time at UHI Perth. I have made lifelong friends and created a supportive network of colleagues, which is extremely valuable.
What knowledge, skills and experience did you gain from your course that have helped you since leaving UHI Perth?
I have learnt so much. At the start of the course, I had no textiles knowledge, and I really struggled, but with a lot of patience from my lecturers and hard work, I now have a wide range of textiles skills that I can apply in the classroom. I have also learnt a great deal about educational theories and the art of being a teacher.
During this course, you undertake educational placements. Can you tell us where these took place and what they entailed?
I had placements in several towns and cities, from Perth all the way to Helensburgh. The gradual build-up of workload over the years on placement was brilliant for my professional development, and I had some really amazing experiences. Having the opportunity to work in a variety of schools changed my perspective for the better and has made me a stronger teacher.
What did you think about the styles of teaching, and the support you received from UHI Perth staff?
I could not have asked for more supportive lecturers during my time at UHI Perth. They really cared about their students and always took our feedback and ideas on board to adapt the course and make it better. The relationships I built with both staff and fellow students really helped me during my time on campus. Having a Personal Learning Support Plan (PLSP) in place when I started also helped me achieve my full potential and not be held back by personal struggles.
What did you like about the campus/facilities?
The ‘FNTE kitchen’, which was set up like a school kitchen, was an amazing facility that really helped contextualise my learning. Having the onsite restaurant to host events and meals was also fantastic!
Were there any other achievements you gained, on your journey?
The personal growth I experienced during my time at Perth was a big achievement. I started as a young, naïve 17-year-old following a dream, and I left as a 21-year-old with a real passion for home economics, the teaching profession, and the wellbeing of young people. I also had the opportunity to push myself across the different years of my degree - organising my own event, making a shirt, teaching lessons to my peers, and conducting my own academic research.
Did you enjoy studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Perth. My personal highlight was definitely the Food Science module in the fourth year of the degree. Completing this module ignited a real passion that I didn’t know I had and has opened my eyes to opportunities I could explore later in life.
You are now employed as a Home Economics teacher, doing your induction year. How are you finding the job?
I love the job. It’s tough and tiring at times, but it is so rewarding. Working with young people every day is the best! Having six placements across the four years gave me a great insight into different school communities and the subjects I am teaching this year. I feel prepared to handle any challenges that come my way thanks to my time at university, and I am excited about the future!
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
My biggest piece of advice would be to follow your dreams! You are capable of anything you put your mind to – you might just have to work hard to get there. Always be yourself and never struggle alone!
