Gillian

"After a long career in teaching within further education and schools, I took early retirement and chose to use this opportunity to study for the MA in Photography and Urban Cultures. 

The content of the course has provided me with the theoretical framework to critically engage with the urban environment and offered a unique opportunity to develop an interdisciplinary approach to my work.  The lectures have been stimulating and I’ve enjoyed them immensely, whilst the quality of teaching has been excellent.   I’m thoroughly enjoying the opportunity to address academic debates, particularly because I’m frequently engaging in narratives that allow me to re-engage with issues I felt strongly about in my younger days.  There’s something very special about having the opportunity for the younger, idealistic self to meet the older, wiser, but still idealistic self!

The opportunity to further my practice, improve my visual language and gain feedback on my work has been invaluable, whilst working with an internationally diverse group has encouraged a wider engagement with concepts and ideas.  The supportive environment has inspired a lot of confidence enabling me to contemplate ideas that I wouldn’t have considered before.  

I am excited that as an older student my future ideas are taken seriously.  When I complete the course I intend to run workshops, create a network of urban photographers in my own area and of course continue to make work."