What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching?
"From an early age I had always loved reading and learning. I was also encouraged by speaking with friends and family who are teachers. After completing my degree and a few school placements, I realised I loved working with children and wanted to give them the best opportunity and support."
What have you done that has really engaged your children?
"Whilst working as a graduate intern, I set up a drama club for Year 6 pupils. In one of our sessions we used different pieces of music to reflect emotion. It was a really successful activity, as it made the children think about how they convey themselves and what effect music can have on a performance.
I also had the opportunity to provide extra support to children either on a one to one basis or in small groups. Getting to know them as individuals and using humour really seems to encourage the children to learn. The pupils love the lessons that get away from the norm.
One of the maths lessons I was a part of included challenges that were written on the tables in white board pen. The children wanted to figure out the problems because they got to write the answers on the tables, which they felt was rebellious!"
What advice would you give to someone who is considering undertaking a graduate internship?
"Go into the internship with an open mind but with an end goal in mind. Be ready to be out of your comfort zone and receive the reward for doing so. Use the time to gain as much experience on offer. You'll develop transferable skills even if teaching is not for you."
What are the benefits of a graduate internship?
"You can get experience of working in a classroom before committing to a career in teaching. It also allows you to question what type of teacher you want to be, whilst gaining the knowledge of the requirements from each lesson."
How has the internship helped you to progress your teaching career?
"I completed my General Primary PGCE course, with a specialism in Key Stage 2 at the University of East Anglia (UEA).
My internship really prepared me for this and I found that I knew what to expect during my school placements so I was able to get the most out of the experience. I successfully applied for my first teaching position at Saxmundham Primary School which was one of my placement schools."
Learn more
Map of where Saxmundham Primary School is in Suffolk.
