Carol W.
About me
| Carol W. | |
| Medieval Studies | |
| Medieval Studies | |
| Taught Postgraduate | |
| Wentworth | |
| 2012 | |
| United Kingdom |
My employment
| Primary head teacher (retired) | |
| Primary school | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Education |
More about Carol
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A day in the life of a Primary head teacher (retired) in the United Kingdom
In retirement, I studied for my masters degree in Medieval Studies at York CMS. I have also taken on a number of volunteer roles such as helping at a local museum, running adult classes and organising a local history group.
Briefly describe the organisation you work for
I ran a small village primary school in North Yorkshire for seven years before retirement. It was hard work but very rewarding
What do you do?
In retirement, I studied for my masters degree in Medieval Studies at York CMS. I have also taken on a number of volunteer roles such as helping at a local museum, running adult classes and organising a local history group.
Reflecting upon your past employment and education, what led you to your current career choice?
In my professional role, I was involved in a great deal of continuous professional development, keen that my staff realised their potential and knew fulfillment in their roles.
Is your current job sector different from what you thought you would enter when you graduated?
In retirement, I try to keep busy and constructively occupied with hobbies and pastimes as well as volunteering to help where I can.
Describe your most memorable day at work
When one of the children - a particular scallywag of a boy - played a wonderful April fools day prank and had us all in hysterics. Children, are wonderful little people with ideas and talents we often don't recognise. I loved my job.
Are there any challenges associated with your job?
Yes, shortage of funds, the challenges of keeping everyone on side as well as the sheer daily work load of a small school where I had a heavy teaching load as well as all the administration to deal with.
What’s your work environment and culture like?
Classroom life and children's needs as well as their gifts meant that every day was different. I was fortunate to have a very supportive staff and especially my one full time teacher who was very hard working and with whom I could discuss many education issues to do with the school as well as the wider world. She was worth her weight in gold and I know I was very fortunate to have such a valuable colleague.
What extracurricular activities did you undertake at university and what transferable skills did you develop through these?
I continued to work at a local museum as well as being involved in village activities on my home ground. I am a keen botanist so hunting for wild flowers has always been a passion as well as sewing and other needlework.
What would you like to do next with your career?
Take a rest!!
What top tips do you have for York students preparing for today’s job market and life after graduation?
Be prepared for hard work, be willing to be flexible, to meet others half way and open to opportunities. Set high standards for yourself in order to encourage others.
What topics from students are you happy to answer questions on?
Work load, managing home/work balance. Education issues, general life skills.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us?
I am well into retirement now so very much aware that some of my former skills are now redundant because the work place has moved on so much. However, many of the things that really matter such as attitude, work ethic etc remain important and I believe I still have something to contribute to help and support younger people.
Next steps...
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