A University of Chester graduate is forging a path to reach her teaching goals.

Ruth Ugbeh Ogechika graduated with a Master of Arts (MA) in Education, Society, and Globalisation this year, having moved to Chester last year from Nigeria - where she was a secondary school Biology teacher.

She achieved a distinction in her MA and was praised by her lecturers as a stand-out student.

The Department for Education (DfE) has recognised the secondary education qualifications gained by Ms Ogechika in Nigeria as equivalent to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

This means she can pursue her dream of teaching biology in the UK.

Throughout her MA, Ms Ogechika worked as a cover support teacher.

She is now seeking a secondary education teaching post in Chester.

Dr Paula Hamilton, MA Education, Society, and Globalisation programme leader, said that in the two years she had led the postgraduate course, Ms Ogechika was the first student from outside the UK to have her qualification acknowledged by the DfE as QTS equivalent.

Ms Ogechika said: "Graduating with distinction was both a personal goal and a dream realised.

"At first, I was quite anxious about achieving my QTS, but my programme leader provided invaluable encouragement throughout the journey.

"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr Paula Hamilton for her support."

Dr Hamilton described Ruth as "a diligent and dedicated student who actively contributed to class discussions, helped with marketing events, and supported new students."

She added: "It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Ruth on the MA and see her advance in her ambition of teaching within the UK education system.

"It shows that with hard work and determination, lifetime goals can become a reality.

"She is a great asset to the teaching profession."

Reflecting on the MA programme, now retitled the MA Social Justice and Globalisation in Education, Ms Ogechika said: "[The MA] offers a diverse range of modules that deeply explore how education functions, the environments where it unfolds, and its impact on society.

"The programme is led by experienced tutors who are skilled at delivering engaging and effective learning experiences.

"One of the most exciting aspects is the flexibility in assessment which has allowed me to select topics within each module that align with my specific interests.

"This approach has not only enhanced my understanding but also enabled me to focus on areas I am most passionate about."

According to a spokesperson for the university, students of the MA examine social inequalities and welfare issues that impact the life chances, well-being, and attainment of children, young people, and marginalised groups.