Brittany Bell

BA (Hons) Physical Education

Name

Brittany Bell

What course did you study?

Physical Education

Year of graduation

2016

Where are you from originally?

Workington

Why University of Cumbria, what attracted you?

I knew I wanted to go to university, but I was unsure about moving away from home. I was also unsure of what career path I wanted to take. I initially went to visit the University of Cumbria as it was local.

After visiting the Carlisle Fusehill Street campus, I loved everything it had to offer. The staff and student union were very welcoming and informative. After speaking with the current students and lecturers at the time, I knew the physical education course was perfect for me. It offered a variety of modules, which would enable me to develop my knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas, which would open the door to plenty of career pathways.

On the applicant day, I was also given the opportunity to visit the local student halls of accommodation and from this, I decided that I would choose the University of Cumbria and move to Carlisle!

Job title

Primary Teacher

Current employer

St Bridget's CE Primary

What sector/industry do you work in?

Education

Briefly describe your role and responsibilities

I am a primary school teacher and currently teach in a mixed nursery and reception class. Alongside this I co-ordinate the PE and Music curriculum.

Briefly describe your career progression from graduation to where you are now

Since graduating in 2016, I went on to complete a PGCE with Carlisle School Direct. I then began working in my current school as a teaching assistant in the same year group I teach now. Alongside this, I did some work as a supply teacher, teaching science in another school. After a year of working as a teaching assistant, the headteacher offered me an NQT position and in my second official year of teaching, I am now currently developing as a middle leader.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?

The most satisfying aspect is witnessing the children make progress and knowing that I have helped in providing them with the knowledge and skills to make those steps in their learning.

What are your ambitions, now and in the future?

At the moment, I am working on ensuring the children in my school are receiving a high-quality curriculum in both PE and Music across the school. In the future, I aim to be an excellent EYFS practitioner and hope to take on more leadership roles.

Looking back, what advice would you give yourself when you just graduated?

Don't give up! What is meant to be, will be!

What top tips would you give to new alumni who are wishing to pursue a similar career to you?

Be flexible and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone if an opportunity arises.

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