Victoria W.

English Teacher
Happy to mentor
Happy to be contacted

About me

Victoria W.
English and Related Literature
English Literature
Undergraduate
2010
United Kingdom

My employment

English Teacher
Teach First
United Kingdom
Education
2010
2012
£22500

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A day in the life of a English Teacher in the United Kingdom

How I found out about the job

Recruitment event

The recruitment process

I applied for Teach First in my final year of university (2010) through the online application process whilst in York. I was offered an interview and attended a challenging assessment centre in London, before being offered a place on the Teach First programme a few days later.

My career history

From September 2010, after graduating from The University of York, I taught English for two years at Failsworth School in Manchester, as a participant on the Teach First programme. I also displayed the necessary leadership competencies in order to graduate as a Teach First Ambassador in July 2012.

Courses taken since graduation

PGCE in English

My advice to students considering work

Take part in as many extra-curricular activities that you can, e.g. student journalism. This will enhance your CV and broaden your areas of interest.

My advice about working in my industry

Teach First has become part of a global movement for change. It is an extremely challenging programme but worth seriously considering if you want to make a difference in your chosen career.

What I do

My first year as a Teach First participant was extremely challenging and I had not previously appreciated just how many difficulties I would face teaching in a challenging secondary school, as an inexperienced teacher and living far away from home. Little by little, and with the support of Teach First and fellow participants, I grew in confidence.

Skills I use and how I developed them

Teach First looks for "exceptional graduates" to join the programme; achieving a First ensured a place on the programme, but it was mainly the competencies that I displayed at the assessment centre that got me onto the programme. I think a passion for my subject, strong communication skills and confidence were useful attributes.

What I like most

I like making a difference to young people's lives.

What I like least

High stress levels and not much time for a social life.

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