What’s your background?
I graduated from University with a degree in Sport and Exercise Science in 2024 before starting my teacher training with the Cheshire East SCITT in 2025. Prior to this and during the course I worked in a bar/restaurant where I have previously worked for four years.
Why did you decide to go into teaching?
From having such positive experiences at school in my P.E lessons I have always known that teaching is the career path for me (cliché I know!). What particularly appealed to me is the fact that no two days are ever the same and every day brings new experiences, opportunities and rewards. I want to make a positive difference to the lives of young people and support them not only in their academic development but also in their personal growth, helping them to build confidence, resilience and a belief in their own abilities. I also obviously love my subject and the excitement it brings to pupils; I couldn’t image doing anything else!
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What do you enjoy most about teaching?
One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching for me is seeing a student have that ‘light bulb moment’ where a pupil finally grasps a concept, they have been struggling with or have mastered a particular skill. Knowing that you have played a part in their achievement and progress is so fulfilling. I have thoroughly enjoyed building positive relationships with pupils and staff which at the start you may think will never happen but believe me it does!
On a personal note, this course has enabled me to grow as a person and get me out of my comfort zone. Throughout the year, I have been challenged in ways that have helped me develop my confidence, resilience and independence. Standing in front of classes, leading lessons and adapting to the demands of school life initially felt daunting, but these experiences have helped me become much more self-assured and capable. Looking back at the start of the year, I can see how much I have developed, not only as a teacher but also as a person. The skills and confidence I have gained will benefit me throughout my teaching career and beyond.
Did you get a job at the end of the course? Where has it taken you since?
Yes! I have got a job in the area for September; one piece of advice I have for this is to never give up. The right job is waiting for you!
What were the three best things about the SCITT programme?
One of the biggest strengths of the course is that you are based in school from day one, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in school life and gain hands-on experience from the very start. This gave me the opportunity to develop my confidence, build relationships with pupils and staff, and apply the theory I was learning directly in the classroom.
The support throughout the programme was expectational. Whether that be from subject mentors, experts and the SCITT directors, they were approachable, knowledgeable and genuinely invested in my personal development as a teacher.
SCITT Fridays. Throughout most of the course Fridays are based at Holmes Chapel where we had a variety of experienced teachers share their own experiences and expertise in a range of different aspects of teaching. Fridays also gave us the opportunity to catch up with fellow trainees (friends!) and Lorraine, providing a supportive space to discuss our experiences, share ideas, celebrate success and work through any challenges we may have faced. Knowing that everyone was going through similar experiences helped to build a strong sense of community and made the course feel less overwhelming at times. The relationships and professional networks during these sessions have been one of the most valuable aspects of my training year.
Would you recommend the Cheshire East SCITT to anyone considering a career in teaching?
I would highly recommend the Cheshire East SCITT to anyone considering a career in teaching. It is widely recognised as one of the strongest teacher training programmes in the area, and my experience certainly reflects that reputation.