Elena W.
About me
| Elena W. | |
| Psychology | |
| Psychology | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Alcuin | |
| 2018 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Teacher | |
| Hospital School | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Education | |
| 2020 |
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A day in the life of a Teacher in the United Kingdom
I undertook a lot of volunteering whilst at university with a range of people and children. This gave me hands on experience which children but also fundraising experience.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
A hospital school - school for children who have a medical condition meaning they cannot access mainstream education. This involves working with a lot of children suffering with mental health problems.
What do you do?
I am a qualified Mathematics teacher, but alongside I teach Psychology. I teach both subjects to GCSE level.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I originally wanted a career in educational psychology but when taking a job as a teaching assistant in the school where I am now employed a decided to pursue a career as a teacher. This is because I enjoyed developing relationships with the students and watching them progress.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Yes
Describe your most memorable day at work
Everyday is different. The pupils come from a range of backgrounds. The majority have mental health issues so every day in challenging but rewarding. The have been many memorable days, from prom, to awards evening, to when something clicks and a students has a lightbulb moment.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Teaching is a busy profession, which lots of work required outside go the classroom. In the current school where I teach every day you encounter new challenges and need to be prepared to be resilient and adaptive.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Due to the nature of the school everyone is very supportive. Everyone is approachable and you can seek advice and support whenever needed. The relationships with pupils is quite relaxed. Normal school hours are 8:30 - 3:30, but extra responsibilities mean work does not always finish at these times.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I undertook a lot of volunteering whilst at university with a range of people and children. This gave me hands on experience with children but also fundraising experience. I volunteered in primary schools, and a school at a young persons mental health inpatient unit as well as volunteering with the National Autistic Society.
What would you like to do next with your career?
Progress in my role and perhaps look into becoming a SENDCo or an educational psychologist.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Keep in touch with your university friends, they are in the same boat as you and will understand any worries or issues you have.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Being a secondary trainee teacher
Teaching
Special education
Applying to be a teacher
Next steps...
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