BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS (5-11)
Name
Charlotte Burgess
What course did you study?
Primary Education with QTS (5-11)
Year of graduation
2018
Where are you from originally?
Luton
Why University of Cumbria, what attracted you?
The campus was beautiful (even in the rain). I wanted to move away from where I lived and gain some independence. The lecturers on the primary education course were all incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. The opportunities offered on placements and on campus drew me to the Lancaster campus in particular. Of course its history as Charlotte Mason college and a previous teacher training institution meant that I knew there was a solid history of excellent teaching.
Job title
KS2 Class Teacher
Current employer:
Drew Primary School
What sector/industry do you work in?
Education
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities
I am a Year 3 teacher in an inner London school. I also lead on a form of assessment within the school (which is used by years 1 to 5).
Briefly describe your career progression from graduation to where you are now
I started at my school as part of my final placement (arranged by the university) in Year 5. Since then, I have been the experienced Year 5 teacher, supporting teachers new to the year group with the curriculum content. Last year, I was given the chance to lead on a method of assessment which has given me confidence and opportunities to work with a wide number of staff across the school. Next year, I am moving to a new year group (Year 3) which is really exciting. I have also been a part of trialing a new curriculum model within Upper KS2 , where I was the specialist Art teacher for Years 5 and 6.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
I loved getting to know the children in my class and making connections with them. One of the most rewarding parts is supporting new to country children to build their understanding of English. Over the last 2 years, I have been able to work with many of these children and have seen the massive levels of progress they make in a short time.
What are your ambitions, now and in the future?
I would love to continue to build my role as a leader within my school and lead a subject. I want to continue to teach in the classroom to support the learning of the children in East London.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself when you just graduated?
Acknowledge that you are not the finished product. You will only get better and more experienced each year.
What top tips would you give to new alumni who are wishing to pursue a similar career to you?
Take opportunities to develop your wider knowledge (through CPD courses) as much as possible. Be a reflective practitioner and always learn from whatever you do, good or bad. Keep your head up and keep trying.
Do you have any support messages for the class of 2020, just embarking on their careers during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Great teachers are desperately needed. Cumbria trains some of the most incredible teachers I know and work with. Be proactive. The children, this year, in particular, are as nervous as you are. Prepare as much as you can (even though we don't know what September will look like.