[Amywoody2009]

Hi I am meant to be starting a 4 year course at Brighton uni for primary ed 5-11 in september or a 4 year art specialism primary course at reading which is also 5-11. Just wondering which uni you went too? x

[Jenniii]

Roehampton... would have applied for Reading but I live there so wanted a different town/city for my uni life!
x

[starchild]

Username/name: Starchild/Sitara

Age: 21

Subject/age group teaching: PGCE Secondary: History

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
Because teaching History is not just about learning from the past but also understanding and realising the roles of consequence, causation, citizenship, team work, ... I could go on. Basically I can help children develop academically, develop skills and knowledge, but also take on a pastoral role. This is especially important when we see increasingly large amounts of students having school as the 'home away from home'. And also History is indeed Awesome and we should teach it, and make sure its taught well so we look at other things other than the 'great tradition of British History'.

What work experience did you have before you applied?
1)AimHigher mentor for 2 academic years
2)Student Associate Scheme
3) LSA in a lcoal school
4)Student Ambassador
5)Work within an inclusive drama company

What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I am doing the PGCE now after doing my degree at the University of East Anglia. The History degree equipped me in the knowledge of all things History related but also how to plan, to research and to collate information. All useful skills for this year. I was considering the GTP however chose to do the PGCE based on the fact I would have loved to keep learning the theory behind education. I am now doing my PGCE at the University of Bristol.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
I chose History because I believe it allows students to develop in so many ways whether academically or socially. The curriculum allows us to work on so many different skills such as diversity, consequence, cause, understanding, interpretation and its such rich subject which we can all learn from. Also Bristol chose me, they called me for interview after I was rejected from Oxford and my other choices had filled up. But I was drawn to their course because of the reputation, and the structure (and how it was indeed primarily based in school). Moreover, I chose Bristol because of the focus they place on History and its current place. For example with the problems (or some may say praises) of Humanities in schools, there will always be an update from the tutors if not us. Also the work load is steady however they do give you a lot but it does all seem for the best. The tutors are supportive and when I went for interview I really thought they were caring. Also the course has a fantastic reputation with OFSTED and that meant a lot when I was thinking of applying.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
First of all, there is no free time. I feel bad for even writing this. For next week (and yes I have lectures during half term) I have to write up all these notes, fill in my QTS standards, write up a huge pile of observations, plan 10 lessons, teach 9 of those, fill in a few forms, do 3 essays, and then so much more on top. Ideally I should have been in bed an hour ago, but I have had too much to do. Currently I am planning a very ad-hoc lesson on the Blitz Spirit within Bristol as the anniversary is next Tuesday. Also Ive got to take some photos of the cathedral so I can use them as sources. So much.

Also, you really dont have much time to experience the whole student experience all over again. But you still get student discount which is good.

Also being a trainee teacher you get to learn so much more than just theory but the time on placement really does let you jump into so many different things. I have several piles of marking, and a choir to organise. I also run a knitting club at the school. It develops you mentally non stop. It really is very very intense.


How are you/did you find the work load when training?
I am finding it ok, only because I am up till 12 every night. It is not a myth because I can guarantee most of my uni mates are as well. It is half term and we all have uni work and lectures, there is no time for a break. IT is a lot of work but it is all worth it.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
I know it sounds cheesey but that little moment where a child goes 'ohhhh I get it'. Also my associate tutor at the school I am at is fantastic and I am learning so much from him. It is so good to have a great mentor.

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Always be prepared. Always have a bank of plenaries/starters or extra activities in case you run out of time. Always have a note book to jot down ideas and always always share them with others because they will share back and you can learn from each other. Oh and never be disheartenned. I taught my first whole lesson yesterday and was observed. My class would not stop talking, in the end I kept them behind for detention where I explained that their behaviour is not acceptable in MY classroom. It is finding the good things in all that negative. I very quickly condemned myself as a lot of PGCE students do but it was my mentor who turned round and went 'Sitara, I didnt have to get involved therefore something did go well.' I mean this is me who had to miss an activity due to the ystarter taking 20 minutes instead of 10. But we all learn from these mistakes which is the most important thing. And do not get disheartenned if it goes wrong. We are training, not proper teachers, yet.

Be organised, do not let the work pile up. I aim to do around 4 hours outside uni each night and when I am on placement I try and do 3.

Also get experience teaching, not just observing. Becoming the teacher is the hardest aspect for me. You have to be in controll of that classroom, you have to take over. You cannot just be nervous, the children will see that. Make sure you can develop that persona.

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?
it is hard work, but it is all worth it. Dont just do it for the money and the job prospects. Please please think carefully about what you are going into. It is hard work, i know I keep saying that but it really is. Right now you have read my work load and I promise that if I was to look over this tomorrow I would have more to do because I have a SEN working group meeting to go to and then a few other things.

If you have any questions do send me a message on here and I will reply as swiftly as I can.

Starchild

[aleathiel]

I can't answer many questions (yet) but I gave it a shot

Username/name: aleathiel

Age: 24

Subject/age group teaching: Secondary/ Post Compulsory
Film Studies/ Media Studies/ Photography

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
To inspire and carry on learning my chosen subject area whilst teaching it

What work experience did you have before you applied?
At the moment not much, I did a few weeks (1 day a week) assisting in a primary classroom but this was years ago, and I was a campower (support staff) in a summer camp in 2009.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I'm going with pgce

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
Easy, I did A levels in Film Studies and Photography, an Art Foundation and degree in Film Production.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
still applying to do a pgce lol

How are you/did you find the work load when training?
--

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
--

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
--

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?

[caroline_p3]

Username/name: Caroline

Age: 23

Subject/age group teaching: Secondary/ A level Physical Education

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
Because i love my subject, am good at it and enjoy working with children. I find scondary age more rewarding than primary as you can teach the same pupil for 7 years and see them grow into young adults and you can have a proper intelligent conversation with them not to mention the interesting subject knowledge you cover teaching KS5. No 2 days are the same and children are forever surprizing you. I believe in the importance of my subject even though some don't. We do lots of good, PE is not just running around a field, it is healthy living for life - finding a form of exercise pupils enjoy and can carry on after they leave school. It is teaching them why this is important, it is the co-operation skills, the communication skills, the fun factor, the extra-curricular life that many pupils excel in. Its a different method to express yourself and i will teach human biology through all years at the same time. The un-structured, chaotic setting we teach in will challenge any teacher. there is a reason most teachers dread PE cover!






What work experience did you have before you applied?
Yr 10 2 week work experience when younger in primary
2 days primary placement
lots of various days in 6-7 secondary school PE departments
Outdoor and adventure camp leader
Sports leader award
Run clubs weekly at a local primary school
Helped out at my local Sixth Form






What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I trained through the SCITT route (school centred initial teacher training) i still gained a PGCE at masters level but spent more time in Schools than a normal PGCE student does.
I felt that this way has more useful training being in a school setting, i could not afford to go back to uni again so knowing how much hard work teacher training is this was a way i could still stay at home.
So glad i did it this way - i had 3 nearly whole terms in 2 different schools which meant i felt like a real teacher not just working their for 6 week blocks, i had my own classes and my own place within departments.





How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
My subject choice was easy. I have always been good at sport, a leader and have a degree is medical science. Human biology and anatomy is my passion. Extra curricular activities are one of the main reasons i enjoy being a teacher so much, spending time with pupils in that non-structured setting is so much fun and you really get to build constructive relationships with pupils very quickly.
My training provider was choosen for location, the fact it has a good rep and many local teachers i met on placement trained with them and the structure of the course. - should mention i trained with Colchester teacher training consortium

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
Trainee teacher is not like being a student if you do the SCITT route it is just like having a job! Very hard work, stressful, disheartening at times and also the biggest and best leanring curve of your life!



How are you/did you find the work load when training?
I am a very organised person i managed it without too much bother, doing SCITT i did essays etc at the same time as lesson planning, placement work at the same time . I am a hard worker and sailed through my medical degree but i can tell you teacher training is intense and hard hard work! Paperwork is HUGE but most of all it is made hard because of the stress, observations each lesson make you a better teacher (i know this logically) but sometimes you can still feel criticised and take things personally. That 5 times a day is hard sometimes. You have one bad lesson where the kids are 'pains in the butt' it ruined you day and can be very hard to take sometimes.




What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
Graduating!!!
Getting graded a 1 in a formal observation.
The same as now i am a 'real' teacher - a pupil understanding and achieving something you have taught them




Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Only do it if you are sure you want to be a teacher.
Get lots of experience in schools
Be organised
Get things done early
Do things to stand out from the crowd - getting on a course and then a job is very hard and competitive - still now only 2/6 of my course that graduated last year have jobs!! even though they graduated as 'good' teachers!!

[EmLancs]

Username/name: EmLancs/Emma

Age:21

Subject/age group teaching: Secondary (11-18) Religious Education

Why did you choose to train as a teacher? I always wanted to teach from an early age. As a child I found my teachers inspiring and wanted to grow up to be just like them. By the time I got to secondary school I'd developed a massive interest in History and R.E. and loved the idea of helping others to be passionate about something (although back then I still wanted to teach primary school children). I made the decision to teach in secondary schools once I was older. Having spent a lot of time working with primary school pupils I became a little sick of the same responses all the time. I found that the work I did with older groups was far more individual and unpredictable.

What work experience did you have before you applied? I had spent a lot of time helping my mum out in her primary school (she's a HLTA) and had spent all the work experience time I had at secondary school in primary schools. I helped run an after-school drama club durinng yrs 10 and 11 and spent time helping my younger sister with schoolwork at home. During my university years I was employed by the Uni to teach philosophy (one of my degree subjects) to children in yrs 5-13. This was how I discovered I preferred working with older pupils. I also spent my holidays doing voluntary work experience in secondary schools near my parent's house which taught me a great deal.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why? I took the PGCE route. I wanted to be able to do a degree in areas I was interested in (you guessed it, History and Philosophy) and to have a few years of living independantly as myself. I'm a colourful character to say the least and knew I wouldn't be able to do alot of things if I'd gone straight into a BEd. (For example some of the crazy colours I dyed my hair). I also thought that this way I had some time to change my mind and choose a different career, and if I did I would still have an academic degree to fall back on. I chose PGCE rather than in-school training because I'm naturally academic. I enjoy studying theory as well as putting it into practice. I felt it was the route for me.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with? I chose my uni (University of Cumbria) because by that point I already lived in Lancaster with my partner (I did undergraduate at Lancaster Uni) and all of my friendship circle lived there too. I was aware of how stressful PGCE can be and didn't want to be without a support network for my dip moments.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student? PGCE is more like working full time. At the moment I'm on placement, I leave my house by 7am and get back at around 5pm (if I'm lucky). I'll then have a cuppa and proceed to work til about 11 when I'll be off to bed. Compared to my undergrad days when 11pm was mid-afternoon it's very different! PGCE is alot more work than my degree was. I can't rely on being a good essay writer or having academic ability, I'm on the same learning curve as everyone else and it's very steep. (It is good fun though I promise!)

How are you/did you find the work load when training? As I say the workload is very heavy. I work most evenings and over the weekend too. It can be stressful or upsetting when there are social events and I can't attend, and I do feel out of the loop from my friends sometimes, something that's common knowledge to everyone else often won't make it to my ears until several weeks later! It is worth it though, and the work itself is very interesting and creative.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher? Planning and delivering lessons. It may be time-consuming, but coming up with the ideas is very exciting and I love actually teaching lessons to the kids.

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher? Definately be 100% sure you want to teach. The PGCE takes a lot out of you. You'll have really happy moments and really depressing ones too. Also it's a good idea not to move somewhere on your own to do it unless you know that you'll be able to cope. I love having my support network, I don't know what I'd do without it!

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training? It's incredibly hard work, but so far it's been completely worth it.

[J]

FYI we've updated the Become a Teacher section:

http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/Become_a_teacher

feedback would be useful too

[oxymoronic]

(Original post by J)
FYI we've updated the Become a Teacher section:

http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/Become_a_teacher

feedback would be useful too

Do you know a lot of your links no longer work as they've been taken offline?

The TDA stuff doesn't reflect current government policy/training incentives as its all under review and very much up in the air at the moment meaning they're taking a lot of it offline, so some of your links no longer link to everything because the information it was giving is no longer correct.

Is there any way of putting a form of disclaimer on it saying the TDA/advice in the wiki may not be a true reflection of the current state of ITT? Or will that screw up your funding from the TDA (who I believe create/pay for the page) as you're saying they're wrong? Even though that's true? All of the government stuff relating to education, the NC and teacher training has banners all over it telling you that it might not be factual information/current policy and a lot has just disappeared from the internet completely, like I said. Its changing on a day to day basis so what someone reads today on TSR about doing a PGCE might not be true in a months time. I know its up to applicants to check everything out properly, but its a bit misleading if you've got wiki information etc which isn't reflective of current policy, although this is through no fault of the author as it was correct when they wrote it.

Also, why are random opinions about favourite teachers placed before the actual information people will be looking for if they're applying to teach? The information at the top of the page should surely be the most relevant to applicants?

[redaniel1]

Username/name: Rachael Daniel

Age: 18

Subject/age group teaching: Primary with English

Why did you choose to train as a teacher? I once had an AMAZING teacher, he didn't teach like any other I've ever had before! It aspired me to be like him!

What work experience did you have before you applied? Two weeks year 10 work experience, during year 13 I went into a school for a day once a week and I've done various sport/dance events with young children

What route did you take to become a teacher and why? A four year teacher training course with a specialism! I did this instead of a degree then PGCE, because I personally don't see how you can train as a teacher in a year. Also, I asked a few headteachers and they said they would employ someone who did a straight teaching degree over someone who trained for just a year!

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with? I decided to do an English specialism purely based on the fact it is my strongest subject and I believe it gives you the foundation skills to excel in all other areas! I picked the University of Reading to train at based on a number of factors; league tables, talking to students and the course in general!

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student? 'Lectures' are not lectures like undergraduates have. They are more like 'lessons'. I feel it is far easier to participate, ask questions etc in a calmer setting.

How are you/did you find the work load when training? Pretty relaxed; 10 weeks to do two essays and two presentations

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher? You have the support of your tutors and lectures around you 24/7

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher? Check the course it what you really want, research modules etc and check whether placement expenses are paid for, research beyond the course to; paid employment, halls, nightlife, transport etc!

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?
Prepare for the interview and learn from previous ones; they all ask pretty generic questions; why do you want to be a teacher, what can you give, what makes a good lesson etc? As well as researching current educational issues!

Good luck

[Jepira4661]

Username: Jepira4661

Age: 23

Subject/age group teaching: grades 1, 2, 3 and Middle School Journalism in Cambridgeshire

Why did you choose to train as a teacher? After volunteering and helping 5-8 year old students at a local DODDS school in Japan, I realized that teaching was a very possible career choice for me. The kids were a lot of fun and the course plan was easy for me to put together. The teachers mentored me, many of whom are prior service and spent time teaching in the UK. I was offered training and a future position teaching anywhere in 14 different countries. Being able to teach in the UK was what caught my interest.

What work experience did you have before you applied? I am currently a journalist in the United States Marine Corps and trying to figure out if getting out or staying in would be more beneficial. So far, getting out seems like the better way to go. Our entire workshop volunteers for a program which helps children with basic reading and comprehension skills. I just finished my BA in English and Journalism, which qualified me to become a DODDS teacher in the subject of English so I did some additional volunteering as well.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why? I had not considered a serious career as a teacher until I began volunteering. At first, it was just something I did for fun to help out the community. But then, I met a few mentors who had started out in my position and shared with me some of the benefits of being a DODDS teacher. One currently takes courses through Durham University and another takes courses through a UK University I can't remember. So far, I have just been speaking to them and working out a course of action to take when my time in service is up.

How did you choose the uni to train with? I completed two degrees through a credited online University. I didn't have time to attend classes due to my work schedule. However, plenty of time cooped up in an office meant plenty of time to study and get ahead. It was all free and paid for. I took CLEP for all of my general education and my military service counted for all of my electives. I took on heavy course loads to finish my degrees as soon as possible. One of the requirements of being a DODDS teacher is to continue enrollment in a University (Doesn't matter which University) so I plan to work toward a Masters Degree or further if I don't finish my Masters Degree Program in English by the end of my enlistment.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student? So far, I don't see any difference. The typical University life is something I've never experienced. I work, volunteer and study in a very controlled, professional environment. Plus, public speaking is the norm. We are required to teach classes to Marines on a weekly basis about a variety of training subjects. By now, I'm just used to it.

How are you/did you find the work load when training? Time management, prioritize and log everything. At a glance, it looks like a lot but I look forward to my job, completing my coursework and spending time with the kids. I don't know how I do it. I just do it.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher? Probably just learning a lot about the kids, their tendencies and the funny things they say. And when you teach them something, even something so simple, it's kind of cool.

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher? Volunteer, spend time with the age group you plan to teach. One of the interesting things I've learned is what technique work with the different age groups as far as getting them to pay attention or helping them comprehend the assignments.

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training? I'm not really sure. I agree with not stressing the small stuff. Volunteering with the kids is probably the easiest part of my day.

How does being a teacher differ from your time training? How does the work load or responsibilities compare? Well... military training is definitely a lot harder than the training I currently do to become a teacher... so...

How do you see your career progressing as a teacher? If I go though with becoming a DODDS teacher, I will probably use it to further my education, spend time writing and gaining more teaching experience. If I were to get serious about teaching, I think I might want to work toward teaching at the college level. I'm interested in trying different things.

[mypsuedonym]

@Jepira4661

a local DODDS school in Japan

For all the time you took to fill out a profile it is not at all useful or relevant to Initial Teacher Training in the UK!

[J]

(Original post by mypsuedonym)
@Jepira4661



For all the time you took to fill out a profile it is not at all useful or relevant to Initial Teacher Training in the UK!

It's really interesting though, thanks for sharing!

[Jepira4661]

(Original post by mypsuedonym)
@Jepira4661



For all the time you took to fill out a profile it is not at all useful or relevant to Initial Teacher Training in the UK!

I've read this entire thread as well as a few other threads that J has started. No where did it specify that I had to be a part of PGCE or ITT to include my information/use this resource. I'm training for a teacher position with DoDDS in the UK, but I am currently military stationed in Japan so I volunteer, complete teacher training and receive guidance from educators who work with the DoDDS here in the meantime. That way, when my military contract expires, my transition into the teaching profession will be immediate. That was my whole point. Sorry, if I wasn't clear on that. If you were looking for guidance or information to PGCE, I'm sorry. That wasn't the information I was aiming to provide. I just took a different route.

[BBGirl]

Username/name: Shazia

Age: 36

Subject/age group teaching:Post Compulsory (14+) Chemistry and Biology

Why did you choose to train as a teacher? I had the opportunity to work for 8 months at a HE institution as an Hourly Paid Lecturer/Demonstrator...and I loved it!

What work experience did you have before you applied? Worked in a primary school for 2 weeks for work experience through school, 4 weeks in a special needs school and 8 months at a uni.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why? BSc and PGCE (PCET)

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with? I love science, did my degree in science and the rest is history.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student? Will start my training in September 2011..and i'll let you know.

How are you/did you find the work load when training?

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?

[vinylate]

Username/name:
vinylate/Hannah

Age:
22 (was 21 when I started training)

Subject/age group teaching:
Science, Biology specialist/11-18

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
This is one of the trickiest questions that I am asked so often! I wanted to make a difference to the lives of young people. I love science and I love communicating with others – I wanted to do this on a daily basis and felt there was no better career than teaching! My secondary science teacher was also an inspiration, he went above and beyond for us and really helped us all to excel, so I suppose that was another reason why I chose to go into teaching. I also didn’t want a dull desk job where every day was monotonous, and teaching really does throw up a lot of variety – no two days are ever the same!

What work experience did you have before you applied?
Throughout sixth form I worked one morning a week in school with some science and English classes – mostly just helping them out with their coursework etc. Once in university, I still continued to work with young people as social and academic mentor working within the Disability Support department at my university. As I started to seriously consider teaching as a career, I undertook two weeks, full time in school, where I shadowed specific teachers and helped in a number of classes with a range of ages and abilities. In the same year, I also volunteered for CHICKS, where I helped out on a residential placement with 8-11 year olds.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I chose a PGCE as I only really seriously considered teaching as a career choice when I was in my second year of university. I also felt that to keep on the more ‘academic’ route, as opposed to the GTP would suit me better.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
Well my first degree is Biomedical science, I knew I wanted to be a science teacher and Biology is naturally my specialism, so it made sense to undertake a Biology PGCE. I chose universities close to my home town so that I could live with my parents whilst training and therefore keep costs down. I did a lot of research and found that all in all, a PGCE is a PGCE no matter where you study. Schools didn’t really seem too interested when I went for interview!

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
There are hardly any lectures. There isn’t someone telling you what to do. You can’t be taught how to teach – you kind of have to suss it out yourself. The best way to learn really is to have a go – until you do it yourself, you can’t really understand what the profession involves. There are also less assignments, and everything is ‘reflective’ , so you look at your own practice and you’re always trying to improve. You soon realise that there is always room for improvement, and although it feels good to get things right, you’re not going to get a gold star or a pat on the back! You also spend the majority of your time in schools, teaching. So it’s more like a job than a degree.

How are you/did you find the work load when training?
To be honest – it was fine! People were stressing so much, telling me how it was the hardest year of their lives and that I could kiss goodbye to my social life. I worked around this by staying late in school, making a point to not work on weekends unless I absolutely had to. At one point, I wasn’t working at all outside school hours (well, after 6pm) and I honestly thought I was doing something wrong! You kind of just have to get to terms with the fact that you will always have work, you will always have something to do. But you have to learn to prioritise properly, and to know when to stop. Because you will need a break – you will need a couple of hours in a day to eat and wind down! I’m not going to lie, I did work hard, but it wasn’t as bad as people made out; there are loads of people who are trying to support you, mentors and tutors etc.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
Getting to work with the kids! There are some really awesome young people out there, and every day I spent smiling – even on the days when I was crying on the toilet floor (yes, it did happen!!) “Cracking” a difficult class is one of the best feelings going, and as a trainee there is nothing more flattering than experienced teachers asking to nick your resources, or hearing the buzz in your department because of one of your lessons! Kids talk, and positive feedback from the pupils is heard loudly.

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Get as much experience as you can before hand – training as a teacher and obtaining a job as a teacher is now more competitive than ever. But if you have the “edge” and show bags of enthusiasm, there is no reason why you wouldn’t get onto a course. Be prepared to work hard and work late. Be prepared for early morning and severe mood swings (hysterical laughter and tears all in one day!). Be prepared to change – because you will change. But you will change for the better, honest!

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?
Teaching is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling careers a person could ever hope for, but then again, I am very biased!

[FadeToBlackout]

Username: FadeToBlackout.

Age: 24

Subject/age group specialism: Primary

Training Status: Trainee teacher, just started PGCE.

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?:
Well, what else do you do with a History degree? :P I decided long ago that I couldn't hack the 9-to-5 office life. Up at 7:10, in the car at 7:50, park in the same parking space as I do every day, drudge over something boring like writing market reports or creating Powerpoint after powerpoint on "Low Growth-Yields through the South Asian Sector third quartile" or "Sales of A4 400 GSM in the Slough Area" all day and then have a boring standard weekend.... Not for me. I'd rather do something where I can make a difference and help children develop and grow up, whilst having great fun.

What work experience did you have before you applied?:
2 years working as a TA/IT support/drama technician/general dogsbody (and cover supervisor and a term of unqualified teaching) in a secondary school, where I decided that teenagers and teaching Hitler, Stalin and Henry VIII ad nauseum were also not for me... I went as far as applying for a PGCE in Secondary History, but was rejected- which was a blessing in disguise, really, as I wasn't completely sure it was what I wanted. 1 year as a TA in a primary school, to see if I was making the right decision. Turns out I was.

What Route are you taking to become a teacher?:
PGCE, as I'd spent 3 years in the classroom getting a pretty good idea of what to do, but not knowing WHY it was done! I felt I lacked the academic foundations to understand teaching properly. I did try applying for the SCITT and GTP, but there were no places available in my area whilst I was applying, so I went for the PGCE route.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?:
As I mentioned, I spent two years in a secondary school where due to the roving trouble-shooter nature of my job I observed many History lessons and got the chance to teach a couple once the Head of Department knew I was considering teacher training. I felt misgivings as to whether that was the right choice for me- I also really enjoyed being involved with the other subjects, English, ICT, Science, DT, Art, Drama.... the list goes on. Reading Mike Kent's column on the back page of the TES sparked the idea that, if I were to be a primary teacher, I could teach everything (even the Dreaded Maths!). Writing reports for the 140 children I was teaching IT to, and realising that I only really knew 30 of them, together with the idea of being able to really help children to grow not just academically but as people, was really appealing.

I chose the uni- the same one where I did my undergraduate studies- chiefly because I graduated and now live in the same city. It's also got a pretty good reputation for the PGCE course, which helps a lot. Other back-up choice unis, further away, would have meant temporarily separating from my partner (and cat!) and cost a LOT more money.

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?:
Make sure it's what you want to do. Teacher training is expensive and getting even more so, and although it gives you a lot of skills, you want to make sure it's right for you. I spent three years on TA wages- earning less than I did when I was 16 and working at Safeway!- to get the relevant experience and make sure it was what I wanted to do before making the right steps.

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?:
If you want to earn megabucks, go and work for Merrill Lynch or PriceWaterhouseCoopers. If you want a satisfying job where you can make a difference, choose teaching!

[noodles!]

Procrastinating planning so thought I'd fill this in...

Username/name: noodles!

Age: 22

Subject/age group teaching: Secondary MFL (German/French)

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
I just always wanted to end up back in a school and to be honest couldn't really see myself doing anything else.

What work experience did you have before you applied?
I was a language assistant on my year abroad, and had been tutoring basic Japanese privately.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I chose a SCITT course as I wanted the formal qualification of a PGCE but combined with more practical experience than some uni-based courses offer.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
Subject was my degree and I love German so that was obvious. As for the training provider, there wasn't that much choice of SCITT providers but reading what was available about the course assured me that it was for me.

How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
You'll actually be busy, all day. If you thought your 10-odd contact hours were "taking up all your time" as I did sometimes you're in for a shock! But it's good, in a way.

How are you/did you find the work load when training?
It's just about manageable at the minute, I'm on a 40% timetable but spending too long planning lessons still so I need to speed up for when my timetable increases. Assignments for me are always timed to be due in after a holiday so no problems there.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
Just being in a school and being around the students. Also, they come out with some comedy gold in class/in their books. And of course, "I get it now, sir/miss, thank you" is amazing to hear!

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Don't do it if you just want something to do for the year, it's NOT a soft option! Go and get as much experience as you can- often just being in the classroom atmosphere is enough to put someone off/confirm that it's what they want to do.

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?
It really is tough, nobody should lie to you about that. So if it's something you really want to do, don't let anything stop you!

[affinity89]

Username/name:
Affinity89
Age:
22
Subject/age group teaching:
Primary
Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
Enjoyed a couple of years experience as a voluntary TA. Now realised that perhaps I prefer the TA role.
What work experience did you have before you applied?
Two years working 1 day a week in a primary school, plus an extra week in every day [in another key stage]. Took courses on areas like autism. Took part in a short teaching course, focusing on teaching enterprise skills.
What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
Degree in History [as I love History and didn't know what to do career-wise back when I applied] and then a PGCE.
How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
Never contemplated secondary - don't think it is for me. Picked Durham as the department had a fantastic Ofsted, good school partnership links and I liked the prospect of living somewhere new.
How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
Massively different. At undergrad, I had between 5-10 hours a week. The emphasis was on personal study/reading. I had time to be a member of various sports teams/societies, to do my volunteering and to have a paid job. Now, I am in 9-5pm on uni days, 8-5pm on placement days, 5 days a week. Plus there is bucket loads of work to do in your own time - what little you have. *shattered*
How are you/did you find the work load when training?
It is pretty massive, to be honest. I often feel overwhelmed.
What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
The sense of solidarity you have with the people on your course.
Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Be sure it is right for you. It isn't right for me and that makes finding the motivation to carry on really difficult.

[Nevitt]

Username: Nevitt

Age: 28

Subject/age group specialism: Secondary Mathematics

Training Status: Completed PGCE, decided not to move into teaching.

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?:
Loved my subject and had experience teaching undergrads in university which I really enjoyed. Spent some time in secondary schools and enjoyed it.

What work experience did you have before you applied?:
Masterclasses involving secondary school pupils coming in to university, 2 weeks in secondary school, 1 in primary. Teaching various undergraduate courses for 1st and 2nd years.

What Route are you taking to become a teacher?:
PGCE as didn't feel I had enough experience to go on the GTP (and wanted to take it a bit slower at the start). Did PGCE at Cumbria University.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?:
University location was purely so could be close to my girlfriend. I had the choice between physics and mathematics but math seemed a more natural subject to teach.


Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?:
Get as much experience as you can in schools before you commit, if currently at university ask around to see if they have links with local schools. Talk to as many teachers as possible also and people involved in the profession as your preconceived notions will likely be wrong. Realise that your subject knowledge will not on its own make you a good teacher. The focus for most PGCEs will not include A-level, focusing on classroom management and surviving the year should be your goal. Also realise that schools can and usually are completely different, take on as much advice from your placement school mentors, they know what they are talking about and you will not pass if you think you are above criticism.


Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?:
The academic parts are not that difficult but do require some discipline to not delay them too much. Teaching for a lot of students is a rollercoaster ride: the highs are great but the lows are terrible. You will need a thick skin and be able to take criticism. You certainly don't need to work 70 hour weeks if you work smart, nonetheless it is exhausting and emotionally draining.

Personally I decided not to move into teaching after the PGCE year and went another direction as it wasn't for me but a lot of people on my course loved it and couldn't imagine doing anything else.

[alison-claire]

Age:20

Subject/age group teaching: Primary

Why did you choose to train as a teacher?
I realised during my work experience that there was nothing I enjoyed more than working with children, helping them to learn and progress and looking after them. I could never imagine myself in any other career.

What work experience did you have before you applied?
During my Study periods in my GCSE and A Level years I worked predominantly in years 2 and 3. This equated to 2 afternoons and 1 morning per week (I did 13 GCSEs and 4 A Levels as well as a couple of other qualifications during this time, but did all of the work I would have done during my study periods at home instead of having leisure time). In Yr 13, I did work experience in a Reception class for 1 afternoon per week and a 3 week block at the end of my A2 Exams. I was also a Guide Leader's Assistant for 2 years and have helped in a Junior Art Club for 3 years.

What route did you take to become a teacher and why?
I chose to study a 4yr (now 3yr) BA Hons at Manchester Metropolitan University as I know I definitely want to be a Primary Teacher. I didn't want to risk doing a degree and then not being able to secure a place on a PGCE Course. I also thought the Degree would give me the best experience and preparation for life as a teacher. At the time of applying, I wasn't sure which subject or age phase I wanted to specialise in and didn't want to 'tie myself down. At MMU you choose your age specialism (3-8 or 5-11) and subject specialisms at the end of your 2nd year.

How did you choose the subject to teach/uni to train with?
In addition to your main School-based Training, MMU offers an Early Years block in year 2 of the course, an SEN placement block in year 3 of the course and an Excellence and Enjoyment (a week where you teach a topic to an assigned class - with a group of students from your Course - using a cross-curricular approach) week in years 2 and 3.

[B]How was being a trainee teacher different from being an undergraduate student?
Trainee teachers do usually have more contact-time and a bigger work-load compared to other Courses. Training for a vocation means you combine the theory with the practical, as oppose to some other Courses which are fully/more theory-based. The majority of ITT Courses are assignment-assessed. We had one exam on the theories of learning in Yr 1 but there are no exams, other than the QTS Standards tests at the end of the Course. When you're on block placement it's not a good idea to go clubbing, so you probably will not have the chance to go out for 6 or 7 weeks until your placement is over. It is hard work when you're on placement because you have to plan and resource for the next day every night as well as keeping your placement folders up to date. On each year of my Course we have between 4 and 5 3000 word assignments to write, 2 or 3 assessed SBT folders to make, 2 assessed Presentations and 2 to 3 other assessed folders to make each year (e.g. this year we have to make an MFL folder and a Reading folder).

How are you/did you find the work load when training?
It is difficult to juggle everything but as long as you are prepared to organise yourself and to work hard you'll be fine.

What's the best thing about being a trainee teacher?
Being on School-based Training, you learn SO MUCH during your placements, much more than by writing assignments or making folders. It's hard work and you usually have to wake up at 6am every day and may not get back home until 5/6/7 pm, it's so rewarding and enjoyable! You learn something new every day and each day is different. It reminds me of why I'm training to be a teacher!

Do you have any tips for someone considering training to be a teacher?
Get as much experience as you can working with children prior to beginning the Course, make sure it is definitely what you want to do!

Organise yourself and don't leave assignments until the last minute.

Are there any other comments you wish to share about teacher training?
If the shoe fits, go for it! Teaching is challenging but even more rewarding.