Nathan Devlin

Nathan, a career changer from the North of Ireland, shares his teacher training journey. Nathan discusses how he found his love for teaching and passion for working with children with special educational needs, as well as his plans for the future.

Firstly, could you tell us about your background before you decided to go into teaching?

I’m Nathan and I am Irish from the north of the country. I have a BSc in Food Science and Technology and spent almost ten years in this industry, spending time in microbiology labs testing food, water and farming samples for bacteria and viruses and also working in food factories as a quality auditor and quality advisor. I then worked for five months as a school science technician, and whilst teaching was always something I considered, it was during this time that confirmed for me that I wanted to go into teaching. I chose primary as I felt this was more the age group I felt comfortable with.

Why did you choose to go into teaching?

I had worked in a school and in a special educational needs summer camp and these two experiences confirmed I wanted to teach, as well as my own childhood experiences.

Why did you choose the University of Cumbria?

I chose the University of Cumbria due to its excellent links with the North of Ireland, which meant I'd have an opportunity to complete my last placement at home. I also know a few teachers who attended the university and had high praises for it. I also like the January start, as this was practical for me personally.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoy the mixture of theory and placement; I feel I can implement the theory I learn in the classroom while on placement and learn on the job from my excellent mentors. My placements have given me an insight into the day-to-day work of a teacher and I have really enjoyed working with my schools and working with the children in my class and helping them in their learning.

How would you describe the support you've had from lecturers during your course?

As a small group the lecturers give us a more personal teaching experience. They are very open to questions and always respond to any emails quite quickly with answers to your questions.

What's next for you?

I hope to go back to the North of Ireland and become a primary school teacher there, either in mainstream or special needs education as this is an area I have a specific interest in.

What would you say to anyone considering teacher training? Any advice?

I would say to ensure you get good school experience and make sure you know what you’re getting into, teaching is such a hard job but extremely worth it and rewarding if your heart is set on it.