Becoming a teacher - a personal perspective
19-Dec-2016If I had to sum up my experience of the programme, I would say it was very much hands-on. Being in placement each week allowed me to build connections between theory and practice, and develop a better understanding of the profession.
A wide range of sessions covered a lot of practical information on safeguarding, performance management, EYFS planning and assessment sessions, etc., all of which supported our understanding and gradually helped us gain confidence as teachers.
I think the theory days were very well delivered and the tutors were all very knowledgeable and helpful. The taught sessions at CREC were linked well with the experience and learning I was gaining through my nursery school placement.
The mock interviews and personal statement support and advice we received were really useful when it came to applying and securing a job. Being given an opportunity to find out what to expect from the actual recruitment process and receiving feedback was a helpful way of preparing for the real job interview.
From the left: Lauren with Sue Bennett, the Headteacher and Lauren Davidson, the Deputy Headteacher on the Save the Children Christmas Jumper Day at CREC (15.12.16)
If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, my advice to you would be: make sure it’s something you really want to do. You should consider yourself as being organised, reliable, enthusiastic and, most of all, committed. Being a trainee teacher is full time, it means a lot of hard work and long days. But I can assure you, if you’re cut out for it, you will thoroughly enjoy the course, as I did.
It was great to be a part of a close learning community and go on the journey together. I met some very inspiring people, who I think have helped me be the teacher I am today.
Listening to different perspectives, stories and seeing theory in practice deepened my passion to teach. I am now loving every minute of being a teacher, my confidence is growing daily and there are always new things to learn! I guess the hard work is all worthwhile in the end.
The course met my expectations and I would definitely recommend the SCITT for enabling and equipping me to become a qualified teacher.
Lauren Coates completed her training with CREC Early Years Partnership and became a qualified teacher in July 2016. Following successful interview, she was offered a position at St Thomas Centre Nursery School and has been teaching there since.
