Name: Lewis Mowforth

ITT Provider: YWTT

Placement school: Holderness Academy & Sixth Form College

Subject/Phase: Science - Biology

 

What inspired you to apply for initial teacher training? 

Science is fascinating to me, especially biology. My key memory on the subject is of collecting fossils along the beach and being told they’re “Devil’s toenails”, pondering “what they are”. During my time at school, I was inspired by my science teachers’ enthusiasm for their subjects. The way in which they told the story of science and the relationship between the branches; of physics, chemistry, and biology captivated my attention during my school years. After my A-level in biology and during my time as an undergraduate zoologist, this interest shifted towards infectious diseases. Specifically, those of zoonotic origin and the evolutionary arms race between the immune system and pathogens, eventually, my passion led to the acquisition of an MSc in Microbiology. At the close of my university experience, from time on placement in Madagascar, where I taught in local schools, and as a Yorkshire wildlife trust volunteer who supported school trips to educate students about the natural environment; I knew teaching was the profession I was going to pursue. 

After graduating I decided to travel and gain some of the infamous life experience my teachers, family, and lecturers had berated me about. Australia was my choice and where I had shelter during the Covid-19 pandemic. Derailing my plans of returning home and with no option to leave the country for freedom elsewhere, I decided to make the most of the situation and see as much of the country and the experiences it had to offer as I could. With my visa limiting me on which professions I could gain employment, I had a plethora of jobs in sectors I never expected myself to be in, meeting people from diverse backgrounds. An invaluable understanding was gained during this experience, most notable was the disparity in professional opportunities available to educated and uneducated individuals. 

Upon returning home I contacted my teachers from school and lecturers from university to discuss routes into teaching and decided upon the course I am presently undertaking. To pursue a career that provides me with the opportunity to fascinate individuals about the wonder of science and inspire them to reach their own potential makes me feel grateful. Gryphaea, otherwise known as “devils toenails” are now extinct oysters, yet they still offer a sense of wonder. Similarly, I want to be a teacher who stirs wonder in others. 

Tell us a little about your placement with The Consortium Academy Trust. What were the highlights and challenges? 

My placement has been fantastic, Holderness Academy as a whole and especially the science department who welcomed me to into their team with open arms. My mentor Dr. Atkin provided me with invaluable knowledge and made me feel at ease. If I was to write down the support, I have received from all members of the science department I would need a bigger article; never mind that from SLT and the SEND department. Conversations and professional development opportunities have made me evermore interested in what the teaching profession has to offer. The Annual TCAT CPD Event was a great opportunity to meet people and develop my teaching practice. I attended seminars on guided practice, student careers guidance, and science in secondary schools. The inspirational speaker’s key quotes are referred to regularly in the school, and I make sure I am a 2% who wears my best socks and believes everyday is a TGI day. 

I have gained many memories from my time, the main highlight has been seeing the progress of my students, they leave class knowing more than when they came in, and the genuine interest shown in their own learning. The progress of my classes and the conversations we have put a smile on my face and provide me with a chuckle at the end of the day; and I don’t think there’s much more you can ask for. The biggest challenge has been seeing the struggle many students have in school, both academically and non-academically. The staff at Holderness Academy provide students with the best opportunity to develop themselves and this is founded on the genuine relationships between staff and students. My other challenge has been leaving the school. It was unexpectedly difficult to say goodbye to not only colleagues, but also the students. In what has been a relatively short amount of time, I have come to know my classes and have looked forward to teaching them. These farewells from the students and colleagues have further proven to me that I have made the correct decision pursuing a career in teaching. 

If I was to offer any advice it would be to be walk with a spring in your step and treat every day as if it is your first impression. Be open-minded, as it is not only students who need to learn you should always be looking to better yourself. To listen to your mentor and host teachers as they are the teaching experts and put into practice their recommendations. To always aim to give students the best, be that inside or outside of class. If you do these things, you’ll end everyday a little bit better than it started not only for your students and colleagues but also for yourself.

 

Name: Michael Harrison      

ITT Provider: YWTT

Placement school: Croxby

Subject/Phase: Primary 5-11

 

What inspired you to apply for initial teacher training?

I put off starting ITT for five years due to extending my family, the pandemic and financial constraints. However, I am now determined to complete my Initial Teacher Training and become a positive role model within a primary school setting, giving children the best education they can receive ensuring they learn in a safe, calm and engaging environment.

Tell us a little about your placement with The Consortium Academy Trust. What were the highlights and challenges?

Whilst I have been working at Croxby for my diversity school I have had highlights and challenges but feel overall I have settled in well and made a good impression, building positive relationships with children, parents/carers and staff. Some of the highlights have been learning from my mentor, being in the Year 2 class, working with a Year 6 child who struggles with behaviour and teaching so many different lessons. Challenges have included the workload, financial struggles and probably the hardest getting that work/life balance.

How have you found the level of support during your placement with us?

I feel I have been supported well during my placement at Croxby and have enjoyed my time here. My mentor has given me a lot of advice in terms of managing behaviour, delivering lessons, planning and feedback to reflect upon.

What advice would you give to trainees who are to start placements with our Trust in the Spring term?

Be prepared for the workload to increase over the term, but keep in mind that the reward you get out of a situation depends on how much effort you put in. Have an open mind, keep that focus and be honest if you are struggling as your mentor is there to help you learn.