Reflecting on my year of teacher training, I am struck by how transformative and enriching the experience has been. It has not only prepared me for my future career but has also significantly shaped my personal and professional development.

The teaching staff have been nothing short of brilliant and supportive. Their dedication and expertise have provided a solid foundation for my training. They were always available to offer advice, share best practices, and provide constructive feedback. This support network was crucial, particularly during challenging times, ensuring I never felt alone on this journey.

One of the highlights of my training was writing assignments that linked educational theory to practical application. These assignments allowed me to delve deep into pedagogical concepts and understand how they manifest in real classroom settings. This process not only enhanced my theoretical knowledge but also improved my practical skills, making me a more effective educator.                                                                                                                                                                                                   

  

Having a lead mentor assigned to guide me through the year was incredibly beneficial. My mentor provided consistent support, helping me navigate the complexities of teaching. Their guidance was invaluable in developing my lesson planning, classroom management, and reflective practice skills. This mentorship was a cornerstone of my growth, helping me to continuously improve and adapt my teaching strategies.

                                                                                                                                                                            Throughout the year, I have grown massively in confidence. The experience of teaching in real classrooms, coupled with the support from my mentors and peers, has empowered me to take initiative and embrace the challenges of teaching. This newfound confidence has been instrumental in securing my new position in a reception class starting this September. I feel well-prepared and excited to begin this new chapter.

 

Both of my teaching placements were brilliant, providing diverse and enriching experiences. These placements allowed me to apply my learning in varied contexts, understand different school cultures, and adapt to different student needs. The hands-on experience was invaluable in developing my teaching practice and understanding the day-to-day realities of being a teacher.

Specialising in Early Years was a particularly rewarding aspect of my training. This specialisation provided specific input and training focused on early childhood education, an area I am passionate about. The skills and knowledge gained from this specialisation were highly admired by my new school during the interview stage, highlighting the value of this focused training.

The year required a significant amount of hard work and the ability to stay on top of various tasks and responsibilities. Balancing coursework, teaching placements, and personal commitments was challenging but ultimately rewarding. The effort invested has paid off, as I have seen tangible improvements in my teaching practice and professional growth. The experience underscored the principle that you truly get out what you put in.

In conclusion, my year of teacher training has been an incredibly rewarding journey. It has equipped me with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to embark on my teaching career. The support from the teaching staff, the guidance of my mentor, the practical experience from placements, and the focused training in Early Years have all been integral to my development. As I look forward to starting my new job in Reception, I am filled with excitement and optimism, ready to make a positive impact on my students' lives.

 

Trainee Teacher 2023-2024 (Early Years Specialism)