Good News Stories – Nicola

I came to teacher training later in life at the age of 45, having spent a number of years working part-time in early childcare settings as my family grew up. It was while completing my Teaching Assistant NPQ Level 3 at a local school that I was lucky enough to be placed in the class of an inspirational teacher who encouraged me to apply for teacher training. After quite a few years out of the formal workplace, I didn’t have much confidence, but I decided to give it a go, not thinking I would pass the interview to get onto my local SCITT!  

My placements at two wonderful primary schools were thoroughly enjoyable and I loved them both. Again, I was extremely fortunate to be placed with professional, dedicated and inspirational teachers who cemented my growing resolution that this new career path was the right one for me. I was successful in securing a teaching post at one of these schools and have subsequently taught in Year 3, Reception and Year 1.

After developing a passion for teaching phonics and early reading alongside a keen life-long interest in reading for pleasure, I became the Phonics and Early Reading Lead at the school. As a result of this role, I now also work as a Literacy Specialist for our English Hub, supporting other schools with their developing early reading practice and providing training for staff focused on identifying and meeting the needs of children with SEND to reach their potential.

• Development of professional relationships and working as part of a dedicated, enthusiastic team both within the school and the English Hub – we really do feel like a big, extended family!
• Excellent professional development opportunities at school, local and national level due to my role and involvement with the English Hub.
• The opportunity to be involved in action-based research that shapes national and regional educational strategies as well as being involved in the Arthur Terry SCITT.
• The ability to network with other educators in local schools and learn from them to improve my own practice.
• The knowledge that my work contributes towards setting up children to become life-long learners, able to access and enjoy the full curriculum offer, not only in my own school but across the region.
• Celebrating the joy that small achievements can make in a child’s life – teaching early reading really is rewarding and a privilege. The same can also be said for parents who speak English as an additional language, many of whom are learning to read English at the same time as their children.
• Time flies by – no two days are the same and you are always on your toes.

Work hard and be passionate. It rarely goes unnoticed.

Ask for advice if you are struggling or require support with something. You will have a wealth of experience at your fingertips in your school and someone will have encountered the same thing before.

Find out what really ignites your interest and passion. Is there a particular area you would like to focus on development wise? Seek out lead practitioners in your placement schools and explore the possibility of shadowing them.  Use networking opportunities to build your expertise and connections.  Volunteer for training opportunities and investigate CPD provided through national literacy organisations, many of which offer great online courses – some for free.

Build your knowledge and expertise of children’s literature. There are a variety of great educational and publishing blogs and websites you can follow. Think about how you can develop reading for pleasure in your classroom.

Teaching is hard work. Look after your mental health and physical wellbeing, including prioritising sleep! Make time for friends and family – they are your biggest supporters.

Do not underestimate the impact that a fresh pair of eyes and your life experience (however old you are) can bring to the profession.  Whatever your background, you will have something valuable to offer and the opportunity to pass on your own passions and knowledge to the next generation. Have confidence in your abilities.

If you feel that the setting is not right for you – you probably haven’t found the right school.  Do not give up! The right place and the right team are out their waiting for you.