Hi everyone,

I recently came across a book called PhD: An uncommon guide to research, writing, and PhD life by James Hayton. It looks fantastic but before I splurge on a book I would just like to see if anyone else here has read it, and if you have, would you recommend it being worthwhile? Being rather pricey I would rather be sure first.
Right now I'm seeking as much guidance as possible as my supervisor tends to have a rather detached approach. I'd far rather navigate the chaos that is a PhD as early as possible than sink due to a lack of guidance and know-how.

Thank you so much for that. I am currently teaching the Cambridge syllabus and experienced the same. I suppose to branch out to teach in public and private schools means the PGCE will improve my employability at the very least. Now to decide whether I should wait or attempt to complete two courses at once

Hi there,

I can also assist with proofreading services for theses and dissertations. Here is my website if you would like more information or to contact me directly :)

Hi everyone,

I am in the process of writing up my proposal for a PhD in psychology. I am very keen to complete a PhD because I feel it is my chance to move into a topic I love. I studied psychology only to realise later on that full time therapy was not for me and decided to make a career change once I graduated from Master's. I have been teaching in South Africa and have been seriously considering the need for a PGCE. However, I am looking for advice if a PGCE is an absolute must even after a postgrad qualification, particularly a PhD, if successfully completed? I am in South Africa, so I would especially appreciate advice from those who have experience with the South African education system as it would likely differ from other countries in terms of requirements... Is a postgrad qualification and experience sufficient to continue teaching, or is the PGCE a must?

Registration as an educator is a possibility through the South African Council for Educators (SACE) without a formal teaching qualification, however it is termed 'provisional' and requires frequent re-registration. Does anyone have experience in teaching with this provisional registration in the long term?

To give some context, I have been looking into conservation psychology and environmental education - hence being so torn by the PhD and/or PGCE debate. Admittedly, I also feel pressured by time and would like to start looking at job opportunities that will get me closer to teaching environmental education or working for conservation/environmental organisations that work with students.

Should both be necessary, would it be advisable to attempt a PGCE at the same time, just taking fewer modules in a semester, or wait until the PhD is finished? Both would be on a part time basis combined with a job.

I would greatly appreciate any advice or to hear others' experiences!