I first became interested in teaching during my undergraduate degree where I studied English, Drama, and Performance Studies. I was awarded best undergraduate student in the School of Arts and Media, and best in the subject English. After graduating, I started working as a one to one Teaching Assistant in Withington with a Year Six student with Emotional Behavioural Disorder. I supported the student in a transitional move to a new school. I then worked as a TA in Year Five at a Catholic school in Longsight. I covered the class teachers PPA and NQT time, supported the students in booster sessions and ran my own Drama club.
My enthusiasm to teach has only increased through my experiences as a TA and as a trainee teacher. The opportunities I have gained have been beneficial and crucial as I have been lucky enough to work with a range of professionals who specialise in different subjects, which has helped me develop my skills as a teacher. This was my main reason for choosing a School Direct route into teaching. I recently completed my first placement in Year One where I received outstanding for my final grade.
I value the importance of continued professional development and have sought out a number of opportunities this year. The University of Manchester offers an optional scheme where trainees can become a Chartered Teacher of the PSHE Association (NQT). This is something that I am currently in the process of working towards.
