What is your background?
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In 2021 I completed my undergraduate degree in History at De Montfort University. I applied to the Cheshire East SCITT at the end of my year at university ready for the following September.
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Why did you decide to go into teaching?
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I decided to go into teaching because, as a student, I was once told I wasn’t good enough to go to university, simply because I was the ‘quiet’ one at school. That experience gave me a strong belief that every student, no matter their background or personality, has the ability to succeed and achieve their dreams. I became a teacher to encourage students to see their potential and to never let labels or circumstances hold them back.
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Beyond that, I’ve always had a passion for learning and for my subject, and I wanted to share that enthusiasm with others. Teaching allows me to make a ​
real difference in young people’s lives, helping them build confidence and skills they can carry into the future. I’m motivated by the opportunity to inspire, to create equal opportunities for all students, and to be the kind of teacher who believes in them, even when they might not believe in themselves yet.
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What do you enjoy about teaching?
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What I enjoy most about teaching is that no two days are ever the same, it’s a dynamic and constantly evolving profession. I love learning myself, and teaching gives me the chance to keep developing my own knowledge and skills alongside my students. One of the most rewarding parts is seeing that ‘lightbulb moment’ when a student suddenly understands something. Knowing you’ve helped them get there is incredibly fulfilling.
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Did you get a job at the end of the course? Where has it taken you since?
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Yes, I did secure a job at the end of the course, and I am still employed at Malbank School in Nantwich. It’s hard to believe it has only been four years since I started teaching, it feels as though I’ve been in the role much longer, in the best possible way. From early on, I knew I wanted to continue developing professionally, and Malbank has given me fantastic opportunities to do so.
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In my second year as an ECT, I successfully applied for an internal role as Girls’ Progress Manager. This allowed me to develop a strong pastoral skill set, supporting individual students both academically and personally. Building on that experience, I was appointed as Head of Year last year, a role I am thoroughly enjoying. At the moment, I’m guiding my wonderful Year 9s through the important process of choosing their GCSE options.
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What were the three best things about the SCITT programme?
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The first highlight for me was the incredible support I received from Lorraine and all of my mentors. Their guidance and encouragement were invaluable, and I truly couldn’t have done it without them.
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Secondly, the Friday training sessions and subject days were excellent. They provided meaningful opportunities to deepen my knowledge, reflect on my practice, and share experiences with colleagues, which was both supportive and motivating.
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Finally, being in school from day one was a huge benefit. While it felt daunting at first, it allowed me to quickly build strong relationships with staff and students, establish clear routines, and stay organised throughout the year.
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Would you recommend the Cheshire East SCITT to anyone considering a career in teaching?
I would definitely recommend the Cheshire East SCITT to anyone considering a career in teaching. The support received was outstanding, and the Friday training sessions and subject days were a brilliant way to extend learning and share experiences with colleagues.
Being in school from day one was another real strength; while daunting at first, it allowed me to quickly build relationships, establish routines, and develop the organisational skills needed for the classroom.
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The programme set me up for success. I secured a role at Malbank School straight after training and, in just four years, have progressed from ECT to Girls’ Progress Manager and now Head of Year. The SCITT gave me not only the skills and knowledge but also the confidence to grow in my career