How do you feel the PGCE has helped you develop as a teacher?
We have been given so much freedom to develop in a way that feels natural to us. The level of guidance and support that has been given has been outstanding, not just from tutors, but from the whole department. They have been really understanding of any problems we might have and there has been real clarity in what they say, how they feel and how that translates over to us across the course.
Why did you choose Homerton College for your PGCE?
On the surface I chose Homerton because it’s close to the faculty, but Homerton gives a lot of support to the large PGCE cohort. Homerton is also a good college for extracurricular activities. I have taken up rowing for the college and the boat club has been really welcoming with the crew being very accommodating of my PGCE commitments. I felt I was able to integrate into that club quickly and have made good friends.
What, or who, inspired you to pursue a career in Education?
Most of my teaching inspirations came from sports coaching which I did before the PGCE, but some of my secondary school teachers inspired me with their nature and how they ran the classroom which seemed like a positive environment which I would like to also foster as a teacher. Those teachers fulfilled the ideal that teachers don’t just teach you the syllabus, they educate you as people as well. Their example is a frame of reference for my teaching.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given or would pass on to prospective PGCE students?
It’s never going to be perfect and that’s okay. Nothing is ever perfect, and you are striving for a moving goal which you are always chasing. A good idea for life and is personified by the PGCE course. Also, kindness, respect, openness and being a genuine person, can get you a long way. Without the relationships I have built on the course I would be nowhere near as confident and competent in teaching.
What is the one thing you think we should be talking about in Education now?
Lack of teachers as it is not the most popular career. People think they are not good enough to be a teacher, but a lot of people could go into teaching. Realising the variety of people in the profession makes you appreciate that teaching is a career for everyone. So many perspectives, ideas and world views all working together.
Tell us about your favourite place at Homerton?
The Boathouse.
