It’s so hard to believe that it’s our last day in Birmingham! It has been such a great experience, and I was thankful to have the opportunity to participate in an educational session this morning. It was really neat seeing the similarities between the school systems in the UK and the US. Both places have schools that resemble each other, even though they use different titles. Even with those differences, the overall goals are still very similar. Teachers and staff in both countries want students to succeed academically while also helping them grow socially and emotionally.
During the session, I found myself constantly comparing what we were learning to my own experiences in school back home. It was interesting to hear about the structure of schools in the UK, how students move through different stages of education, and the expectations that educators have for their students. Although some parts were different from what I am used to, I noticed that many of the challenges teachers face are universal. Supporting students with different learning styles, behaviors, and needs is something educators everywhere experience. Seeing those similarities made education feel much more connected globally than I had realized before this trip. Most importantly, no matter what country one may reside in, never ask a student what their citizenship is!
One of the biggest differences I noticed was in special education services. In the United States, there is a strong emphasis on the least restrictive environment, meaning students with disabilities are encouraged to learn alongside their peers in general education classrooms whenever possible. In the UK, I learned that they do not always implement the least restrictive environment in the same way. There are more specialized schools and programs specifically designed for students with additional needs, which is under SEND. It was really interesting to learn about because it showed me a completely different approach to supporting students. While the systems differ, both countries still share the goal of helping students receive the support and resources they need to be successful. It made me reflect on how educational philosophies can vary between countries while still prioritizing student well-being and growth.
One thing I really appreciated was learning about how schools work to support students despite any barriers that may exist. Throughout this trip, I have learned so much about person-centered care and individualized support through the nursing lectures, and today’s session tied into that perfectly. It reinforced how important it is to create environments where students feel supported, included, and encouraged to succeed. I also enjoyed hearing the perspectives of professionals in the UK because it allowed me to see how different approaches can still lead to positive outcomes for students. Additionally, Chinenye shared that most people want their children in grammar schools; however, these schools are very competitive. Although at a community school, students are still learning and receiving an education, which is imperative.
Looking back on our time in Birmingham, I honestly cannot believe how much we have done in such a short amount of time. Every day brought something completely different, whether we were visiting universities, touring hospitals, participating in lectures, or exploring historical sites. I feel like I have learned just as much outside of the classroom as I have inside of it. Being immersed in a different culture and environment gave me a broader perspective that I would never have gained from simply reading about these topics in a textbook.
Some of my favorite memories from Birmingham were the experiences that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the culture and history of the city. I especially loved seeing the old-fashioned schoolhouse in Black Country and comparing it to schools today. Exploring places like Blenheim Palace and Oxford also gave me a greater appreciation for the history and architecture here in the UK. Everywhere we went seemed to have so much history attached to it, which made every experience feel even more meaningful.
Outside of the educational visits, I also really enjoyed spending time with everyone on the trip. Whether we were walking through the city, trying new foods, shopping, or just laughing together on the bus rides, those moments made the experience even better. Studying abroad is not only about academics, but also about the relationships and memories you make along the way. I know these are memories I will look back on for a very long time.
As excited as I am to head to London for the final part of our trip, leaving Birmingham behind is definitely bittersweet. This city has taught me so much, both academically and personally. I have gained a greater understanding of healthcare, education, culture, and the importance of adaptability. Most importantly, this experience has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow in ways I did not expect.