Interview with a Teacher

‘As a Teacher, you have the privilege of being able to encourage, guide and help to shape a young person's life.’ 

Working in the education industry can be one of the most rewarding career paths to take. 

If you’re looking for a career that will challenge you to be the best version of yourself, encourage your creativity and hone your people skills, becoming a Teacher might be the direction for you. 

We’ve been catching up with a Teacher from the South of England to get his take on day to day life in the classroom. 

How did you decide you wanted to work in the education industry?

My journey into education began following a career and time served in the Royal Navy. I felt that I really wanted to make a difference and so I used my energy and enthusiasm to pursue my vocational calling. I undertook teacher training at the Maritime University of Greenwich in London, over a two year and part time period. 

During this time, I worked alongside my university studies as a Foundation Learning Tutor for children with a wide range of special needs, mainly within the autistic spectrum. 

It felt for the first time in my working life that I was fulfilled and in the right place, using my natural abilities to support and guide some quite amazing young people and their families.

What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the education industry?

My advice to anyone who is thinking of making a career change or even if they are just starting out in their careers, would be to follow your heart and be happy in what you do. 

The education industry is very diverse and everyone can have something to offer. It may seem at times to be quite a thankless environment but the golden moments that you have, even though they can be few and far between, are incredible. 

It may just be that one word or piece of guidance that you offer to a young person that makes the difference, even years later in their life.

What is your proudest career achievement to date?

One of my proudest career achievements has to be when I was nominated by some of my colleagues and students during my university studies for a regional education award. 

I won my category for supporting and helping young people and it was such a great feeling to be recognised for my hard work! 

Which of your personal attributes have helped you throughout your career so far? 

My own natural abilities and attributes grow with each day as my experience and time spent working with young people increases. I have always had a “can do” attitude to problem solving which has benefited me throughout my career. 

I have found that a solution focused mindset, alongside endless enthusiasm and the ability to listen, can be really key in helping to achieve the best outcomes for the young people that you work with and for your colleagues too.

Tell us about your training to become a Teacher

I studied a two year part time teaching degree and worked alongside my studies as a Foundation Learning Tutor. 

Although initially I wasn’t as confident as I would like to have been, it did not take long to get into the habit of learning again and being disciplined enough to set aside the time for studies. 

I was in my thirties at the time and had a young family so I was very thankful to my wife and my school for their support during this time.

What does a typical working day involve?

I don’t think I have ever had a typical day! Each day is different and brings a set of new challenges and dynamics. 

You have to be prepared and ready for anything. The setting you’re working in also has a big influence on what the day ahead holds. 

Special needs, mainstream schools or a college or university setting are all very different, so it’s hard to narrow everything down to a ‘typical day’.

What advice would you give someone starting out in their career as a teacher?

I’d say it’s important not to forget that as a teacher, you have the privilege of being able to encourage, guide and help to shape a young person's life and really make a difference to their future. 

What good habits will help someone in a career in teaching?

Being organised, prepared and having a good plan for the day is always important. Being able to listen, work hard and apply teamwork and positivity to your working environment will subsequently lead to the best outcomes for your learners.

Can you recommend any industry related books / podcasts, and why?

There are lots of great resources out there for anyone working within the education industry so it’s definitely worth having a look around if you’re open to expanding your knowledge and furthering your career!

Share your experience

Every individual brings a unique set of experiences, thoughts, and insights to the table. We believe in giving a voice to a community of professionals to inspire positive change and champion reform in the education sector.  

If you work in the education sector and would like to share your own personal and professional experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Perhaps you have a different perspective, could offer a fresh angle, or want to challenge assumptions. 

Simply reach out to our Head of Content, Nicole Sherwood, to discuss a collaboration which makes your voice count.