Personal Statement - Teaching 10

Primary Teaching Personal Statement 10

My academic studies along with completing voluntary work with children through both Rainbows and swimming lessons have been useful in securing and developing my interest in working with primary aged children. Nurturing their skills is very fulfilling and therefore I believe a course of this nature will lead me to be a successful teacher.

My studies of English Language and Religious Studies have given me higher level skills in National Curriculum subjects. Studying Business Studies and General Studies has allowed me to develop my application skills, important in teaching so that children understand you. I also have an interest in music, and hold qualifications in grade 4 piano and grade 5 music theory. I feel this is useful in a primary school setting, as music, along with drama are good techniques for developing children’s confidence.

Taking on the role of a prefect has allowed me to develop my leadership skills, which in the teaching profession is an important skill. I have also shown my commitment to the school by helping in the Religious Studies department on open days. Helping with Year 7 Australia day allowed me to enhance my leadership skills further through working with groups of children on a practical project. This has confirmed my aspirations for working with children by allowing me first hand experience of a classroom situation.

Being a member of the Common Room Committee and the Charity Committee in college has allowed me to develop my teamwork and communication skills. Both these aspects are important in a classroom environment. These committees have given me the chance to work as part of a group to make positive changes to the sixth form, and have given me the opportunity to help plan the proposed events and changes for the forthcoming year.

Fundraising through charity events such as ‘Race for Life’ and the 24 hour sponsored row’ have been rewarding experiences for me. I also undertake a range of voluntary work in my spare time, allowing me to gain valuable experience in working with children. As a young leader at Rainbows I have developed an understanding of the needs and behaviour of 5-7 year olds, while assisting with swimming coaching has allowed me to develop leadership skills in a potentially hazardous situation. The Millennium Volunteers scheme and Sports Coach UK support me in this personal challenge, through providing courses that further develop my skills in coaching, as well as sports equity and child protection.

My work in community was recognised in year 11 when I was awarded the Work In The Community Award. This award shows that I have the ability to work with a diverse range of people within my community. More recently, I have participated actively in a charity project aimed at helping the community. This entailed planning and running a Christmas party for senior citizens.

In my spare time I enjoy swimming, and I am a regular member of an amateur dramatics club. My interest in drama has given me the opportunity to learn and develop new skills and confidence when performing in shows. In 2006 I won the *******'s Dramatists ‘Man of the match’ award. This is awarded for being the best ‘team player’ throughout the rehearsal season for a particular show. This proves I have a strong ability to work in a team, which is useful in a school setting as a school in effect, is one big team.

During Year 13 I will be gaining further experience through my work placement at a local primary school. I am supporting a pupil at my school through the SEN departments paired learning scheme. I feel that these opportunities will further develop my passion for teaching and I am looking forward to studying teaching at university. I believe that my strong academic record, my personal qualities and attributes, together with my range of experience working with younger children will make me a successful student on the course.