My own reception teacher inspired me to be a teacher. I knew I wanted to be just like her! I thought: if I can be as good a teacher as she is, then I want to give it a go. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher, so I took the relevant paths at each stage to give me the best chance of getting into university.
I studied a BEd in Primary Teaching with Qualified Teacher Status. The application to university was not as stressful as everyone says. The course was enjoyable and gave a real insight to what being a teacher is like. The placements were really useful as well, because you got to learn on the job. I moved away into halls for the first year, then moved into a house with friends for second and third year.
My advice?
Find out more about student finance before applying. Training to become a teacher is hard, especially the first year, but have faith, you can do it! Also, being aware there are ups and downs, but no down stays with you for long, because the love you have for teaching takes over again.
I love my job
My first job outside university was as a learning support worker. I chose to do this job as, after completing my dissertation, I had a keen interest in SEN. I wanted to know more about SEN and provisions within school. After that, I became a KS1 nurture and behaviour teacher for a year, and I am now a Year 1 teacher as well as PE lead and NQT mentor.
The best thing about being a teacher is being able to make a difference to children’s lives. Being able to see the progress the children make. I have no regrets about being a teacher and the course I chose. I love my job.
Alice