Hello everyone,

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As an undergraduate Education student at the University of Nottingham, I am deeply concerned and saddened by the decision to suspend the BA Education course, alongside other important programmes such as Music, Modern Languages, Theology, Plant Biology, and Child and Mental Health Nursing. This move risks undermining the university’s long-standing commitment to educational research and training, while sending a troubling message that education is no longer valued as a profession or academic discipline. It also restricts students’ freedom to pursue their passion and their strong dedication to education.

Education has always been a cornerstone of progress — shaping the next generation of teachers, policymakers, and advocates for equality. The BA Education programme at the University of Nottingham embodies this mission. Though small in number, our community is incredibly close-knit. Professors know our names, understand our goals, and treat us as individuals rather than statistics. That connection defines what education should stand for.

Suspending our course would have far-reaching consequences. The Education degree is not just about training teachers — in fact, only around one-third of graduates go on to pursue PGCE Primary. Many others contribute to education in diverse ways: some work with children and young people in community and outreach roles, others move into education policy or research, and some pursue conversion degrees in areas like education law or specialise in supporting learners with special educational needs (SEN).

Education is also a female-led field, and the BA Education course at Nottingham has long provided a vital platform for women to grow academically and professionally. Removing it risks limiting opportunities for women’s representation and mobility in higher education — particularly in a discipline that has empowered many to become leaders, researchers, and advocates for change.

By suspending BA Education, the University sends a troubling message — that education is not seen as a profession or a discipline worthy of sustained investment. Yet, education lies at the heart of every social, cultural, and economic advancement. As Education students, we are taught to value inclusion, empowerment, and the transformative power of learning.

Now, we must stand for those very principles ourselves. I urge everyone to sign and share this petition with your friends, family, and networks. Let’s make sure the value of education — and those who dedicate themselves to it — are recognised and preserved at the University of Nottingham.

Thank you!