PGCE Primary Education with QTS
Name
Tracey Syms
What course did you study?
PGCE Primary
Year of graduation?
2011
Where are you from originally?
Settle
Why University of Cumbria, what attracted you?
Had friends and colleagues who had attended teaching courses. Aldo needed a part-time relatively local course as I had children at home.
Job title
Class teacher primary
What sector/industry do you work in?
Teaching
Briefly describe your role and responsibilities
I am a year one class teacher and also a subject leader in science, history and geography.
Briefly describe your career progression from graduation to where you are now
From graduating with PGCE and QTS I initially found it quite difficult to secure a post partly due to my location. I joined several supply teaching agencies and soon built up a good deal of work. I was at one point having to turn work down. This was great experience and took me into inner-city schools which as someone from a rural area I had not previously encountered.
Eventually, I secured a temporary post at my current school in 2012 and I have been there ever since.! I now have a permanent post. Though I have a 45-minute commute each way to work, I love the school and intend to stay.
I have taught through school building up my experience but have mainly been in Year One.
As a subject leader I have been able to access lots of training and recently achieved my NPQML ( middle leaders) qualification. I have also been lucky enough to participate in some excellent training this year for maths mastery through the White Rose hub.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Teaching can be exhausting for sure but it’s also one of the best jobs around. I never have a dull moment. I think it is a privilege to be such a part of a young child’s life and to know that you really can make a difference.
I laugh every single day, I can sing and dance around and it’s all fine. Of course, seeing the children making progress is the most satisfying of all but also just knowing that they feel secure and happy in your care is wonderful.
What are your ambitions, now and in the future?
I have no desire to be in management at all- it just isn’t me. I am enjoying all of my subject area work. Teaching is ever-evolving and I enjoy the changes and trying new things. At some point, I will probably request a different year group.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself when you just graduated?
Don’t worry about finding a job straight away. Get some experience first. Know that you are fully capable and that experience is a great thing as long as you use it reflectively.
What top tips would you give to new alumni who are wishing to pursue a similar career to you?
Get some experience. Supply is a great way to find a school that will suit you. If you are not happy move on. Teaching isn’t easy but it will get easier.
Do you have any support messages for the class of 2020, just embarking on their careers during the Covid-19 pandemic?
It may all seem up in the air at the moment but things will settle. You’ve worked hard for your degree so believe in yourself. You CAN do what you want to.