BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS
Name
Linzi Sinton
What course did you study?
BA (Hons) Primary Education with QTS
Year of graduation
2015
Where are you from originally?
Belfast
Why University of Cumbria, what attracted you?
Fusehill Street was a small campus, and coming from a relatively small high school, I knew I would settle in better in a similar environment away from home. Their reputation for teacher training was aiming the best and the staff on the interview panel were very friendly.
Job title
Primary School Teacher
Current employer
DENI
What sector/industry do you work in?
Education
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities
Roles: to inspire, motivate, support, encourage, educated and bring the curriculum to life. Be an educator, facilitator and source of guidance.
Responsibilities: teach students based on NC guidelines, plan, prepare and deliver exciting engaging lessons, assessment of students learning & behavior, guide students both socially and educationally, participate in CPD, collaborate with parents/carers/guardians and other professionals to safeguard and ensure the educational welfare of all pupils.
Briefly describe your career progression from graduation to where you are now
From graduating in 2015 I have worked in several schools as a KS2 teacher and a composite KS2 Learning Support Teacher in addition to working as a supply teacher. I decided I wanted to learn more and become a better teacher, so I enrolled on a masters in education degree at my local university in NI. I am due to graduate this December and am online for a pass with distinction. I will also be starting another course in teaching RE come September as I hope these further qualifications and enhancing my skills as a teacher will open more doors employment wise.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
The most satisfying aspect of my job is seeing children succeed and not just with 'big' things either. Seeing a child who has been struggling to achieve a target (academic or personal) finally flourish after hard work and perseverance is by far my favorite part of the job.
What are your ambitions, now and in the future?
I hope to attain a permanent position within the next year having completed my masters in education this year. For the future, it is my hope that I will continue to love what I do and positively impact the lives of children. I am keen to see a change in supporting children's mental health within schools in Northern Ireland.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself when you just graduated?
Don't be too hard on yourself - the experience you're gaining now is molding you into a much better teacher. The difference you're making, even now as an NQT, is huge.
Keep working to be your best - seize every opportunity with an open mind.
What top tips would you give to new alumni who are wishing to pursue a similar career to you?
There'll be good days and bad days - don't be afraid to ask colleagues for support or advice.
Do you have any support messages for the class of 2020, just embarking on their careers during the Covid-19 pandemic?
Know that it’s probably not going to get much harder than this! You've qualified/graduated amid a pandemic - you can do anything you put your mind to!