Liz H.
About me
| Liz H. | |
| History | |
| History / History of Art | |
| Undergraduate | |
| Alcuin | |
| 1994 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Complex Needs Teacher | |
| Special Needs School | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Education | |
| Medium-size business (50-249 employees) | |
| 2018 |
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A day in the life of a Complex Needs Teacher in the United Kingdom
Don't worry if everyone else seems to have their career mapped out and you don't. Take time to experience cultures, jobs etc to find what you want to do.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I work at a school for children with Special Educational Needs (moderate and complex needs)
What do you do?
I teach Humanities and also PSHE.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
I worked in mainstream education for 10 years but found it very focussed on exams and assessment. I wanted to work in an educational setting which was tailored more to individual needs.
Since graduating I have:
Worked in museums and art galleries
Completed a TEFL qualification
Taught in developing countries with VSO etc
Done an MA in Development Studies
Worked in development charities
Worked for a young persons' advice and counselling service
Completed the Graduate Teacher Programme in History
Taught in mainstream as a History teacher, also teaching A Level History and Sociology and some Geography.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
Yes
Describe your most memorable day at work
Taking a group of students in Mozambique on a History trip. Many had never left the town where we lived before.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
The children in my current job can be challenging, although ultimately it is very rewarding.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
I love my work colleagues.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I played college hockey and did Ju Jitsu.
What would you like to do next with your career?
I don't have any particular plans, I like to see what opportunities present themselves. But I am not interested in school management.
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
I don't really think it matters what you do once you graduate as long as you stay solvent (I.e. are earning money to live on).
Do good to something or someone.
Travel and see the world. Living in another country is far better than simply travelling, from personal experience.
Don't worry if everyone else seems to have their career mapped out and you don't. Take time to experience cultures, jobs etc to find what you want to do.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Careers, living abroad, further study. The Education sector and realities of teaching.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
No
Next steps...
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