Training to Teach – Term One
Introduction
My first term, training to teach in a secondary school has taught me so much – both about the teaching world, and about myself. I thought that I would be able to handle the challenges of being a new teacher and there were certainly some big ones! However, I did not realise that it would be the challenges that would make me learn the most.
My first term, training to teach in a secondary school has taught me so much – both about the teaching world, and about myself.
- It’s a tough job. I had some idea what I was getting myself into when I started the programme, and whilst teaching isn’t for the feint hearted, it brings so much satisfaction. The amount of learning and growth that takes place over one term is immense – both about yourself and about how you approach your work as an educator.
- You need to be ok with asking and accepting help and advice. As a career changer I was well established in my former career and learning something brand new has been somewhat of a struggle but getting into the mindset that I am starting from scratch and learning from experts in their field has helped me immensely.
I thought that I would be able to handle the challenges of being a trainee teacher and there were certainly some big ones!
As a student teacher, I was eager to learn..
- The amount of information I am absorbing is overwhelming at times. Take it bit by bit and make plenty of notes!
- I’ve learned so much from being at school – not just about teaching but also about myself. I enjoy the relationships I am building both with students and staff (and the occasional parent too!).
- Balancing the requirements of school, Uni and your family can be daunting. Always ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Seeing a student learn from something I am teaching is why I chose to change my career so late in life.
However, I did not realise that it would be the challenges that would make me learn the most.
One of the most important things I have learned is that it’s not about the challenges, but how you deal with them. In fact, I’ve found that my biggest mistakes have been my greatest learning experiences. As a result, I now try to approach each new challenge with an open mind and an eagerness to learn from it, no matter how difficult it may be at first glance.
A huge challenge is managing my time after school hours. I have spoken to heads of department, assistant heads and the headteacher to glean how to handle this. I think in time it does get easier to manage and you learn to prioritise.
One of the things that has been tough is planning as there is so much information, so many resources and so many different ways of doing things!
If you are a trainee teacher, planning is probably one of the most challenging aspects of your job. The amount of information and resources available can be overwhelming and it’s hard to know where to start. But don’t worry – planning doesn’t have to be difficult! My professional and subject mentors have been so informative and supportive. I have lots of ideas, tried and tested methods and references to learn from.
The best thing about being a trainee teacher is being able to learn so much from those around you and yourself!
You will learn from mistakes, successes and the past. You’ll see things in a different light as well as gaining valuable experience working with other teachers, students and parents.
Trainees are encouraged to meet regularly with their mentors or supervisors who can help them reflect on their practice and provide feedback on how they are doing. My department are brilliant, observing them teach has opened my eyes to ways to manage students, deliver difficult topics and engage with students who don’t love my subject!
Conclusion
I am really enjoying my time as a trainee teacher and I cannot wait to see what the future holds. I have started my second placement in another school and getting to know a new set of staff, students and processes is daunting but I am loving the increase in teaching time and I know that I have made the best decision to train as a teacher.
