Degree subject: 3D design/MA industrial design
Route into teaching: PGCE (with booster course in design and technology)
What attracted you to teaching?
After graduating I was fortunate to get a job as a technician in a local high school. The main reason I took the post was that it provided me with an excellent opportunity to develop my skills and use equipment that I would not normally have access to. My attitude soon changed when I got to work with the pupils. It felt fantastic working with such inspirational, enthusiastic young minds, helping them to realise their ideas and seeing the pride they took in their work. Every day provided a different challenge and I enjoyed every minute of it. You could say I caught the teaching bug!
I think it's a fantastic career and there are numerous reasons for becoming a teacher – but for me the best aspect of the job is getting to work with the pupils. Every day really is different.
How did you find a job?
My mentors from my initial teacher trainers were fantastic. They kept everyone on our PGCE course informed about job opportunities and gave us regular updates. I eventually found my job through the Times Educational Supplement and the West Sussex Grid for Learning website (having been informed about the position from a fellow student teacher).
What skills are involved in being a teacher?
Adaptability, humour, the ability to listen, good communication skills, people skills, and relatively good organisational skills (although I know some fantastic teachers without them!).
What is the biggest challenge of your job?
When I first started my PGCE I was worried about assessment for learning and behaviour management. Now I have some experience I am more interested in keeping my lessons fresh and engaging and continuing to improve the achievement of my learners.
What are the opportunities for career development?
Since starting my new teaching post I’ve been given the opportunity to pioneer a new GCSE within my school and am currently writing a new unit of work for it, ready for the next cohort.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I think it's a fantastic career and there are numerous reasons for becoming a teacher – but for me the best aspect of the job is getting to work with the pupils. Every day really is different. I think it's fantastic how creative they can be and I feel that I am constantly learning from them.