Why did you choose to get into teaching?
I chose to get into teaching because I had some amazing teachers growing up, who went the extra mile to help me when it came to my work, both in primary school and secondary. I know that this isn’t everyone’s experience, but I want it to be. I want every child to be valued and important and to be able to have experiences and enjoy learning.
Why did you choose the University of Cumbria?
I chose the University of Cumbria because of how they approach teaching. On an open day I attended, they already changed my perception of the role of the teachers and the different ways that children can struggle with learning. The passion the lecturers had about their subjects was great to see, and I knew that this is where I wanted to learn.
"I have had an incredible experience overall. I would strongly recommend if you wanted to have a more personal relationship with lectures, smaller class groups and a place where the lectures care about you, I would recommend coming on the teaching course at Cumbria."
What was the most difficult obstacle have overcome in your student journey, so far?
I would say the most difficult obstacle I have overcome is time management, and it’s something that I am still learning to do. It is important to have a work-life balance, and sometimes that can be lost. Make sure that you have fun while still leaving time to study. I would also say that within placements, sometimes you might be in the deep end, but to carry-on, that has been some of the most challenging obstacles I have faced, but also some of the best learning I have done in a practical setting. Now I am not phased when going into a new work environment.
What advice would you give to others that want to get into teaching?
I would say, be willing to have your ideas and values challenged and be open to changing ideas. Be open to have discussions, getting involved, and do not be afraid to ask questions.
Tell us about your experiences on placement.
In the placements I have been apart of so far, they have both been very different form each other, but both have taught me a lot about teaching and also about myself. My first placement was in a year 6 class, whose students were ready to move on to secondary school. There were many times where I was left on my own to teach the class, but luckily I had a lot of support for my mentor, and it was felt that I could handle that situation. There were times when I felt really overwhelmed, but I loved rising to the challenge. Within each placement, you get to know the different personalities within the class. I loved working with the children, getting to know them, and being a trusted adult they could come to for help.
My second placement was in an amazing SEND school, and while it had a bumpy start due to miscommunication, it turned out to be a great placement. Again, there was a choice of sink or swim, and I chose to keep swimming and was trusted with the support of the TA’s to teach, and be the teacher for the day (this happened on a few occasions). This placement pushed me to use everything that was taught in university and from my own experience. In order to get the know the children on this placement, there needed to be a build-up of trust and respect. Within this placement, it was challenging at times, emotionally and physically, but I had brilliant support from the school and my UPT (University Partnership Tutor). This placement will always stay with me as an amazing experience, challenging, but I loved every moment.
How is university life beyond your studies?
University life is great. I have been able to make amazing friends on my course and off my course. I would say it is crucial to get stuck in with activities and societies both in and outside of university. I was a part of the netball team at university in my first and part of second year, and I am a part of the Christian Union (CU). I go to one of the local churches.
In my first year, I was living on-site in university accommodation, which was good as it allowed me to get to know others with different backgrounds, but I decided in my second and third year to live in Lancaster with friends I made outside of university.
What do you enjoy the most about student life in Lancaster?
I enjoy getting to know other people. I enjoy talking to others and finding out where they come from, what they are studying, what they like and dislike.
What has been your overall experience training with the University of Cumbria?
I have had an incredible experience overall. I would strongly recommend if you wanted to have a more personal relationship with lectures, smaller class groups and a place where the lectures care about you, I would recommend coming on the teaching course at Cumbria.
What are you looking forward to the most with regards to a new career as a teacher?
I am looking forward to having my own class and imparting a love for learning to each child who comes into my classroom. I aim to challenge what is expected of myself and maybe, someday, to change the current education system.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Be open to any opportunities available to you, it could change your life.