A career in Education called to BA History graduate Charlotte Dadds, who now works as a Classroom Teacher in a primary school.

What did you study and when did you graduate?

I studied BA History and graduated in July 2017.

Who do you work for and what is your job title?

My title is Classroom Teacher  - I specialised in Primary Education.

Describe your current role.

I am currently a Y4 teacher responsible for 30 children in KS2. I teach directly from the National Curriculum, planning and teaching a range of lessons from English, Maths and Science to RE, Geography and Art.

As it is a Catholic school, my role is to promote a Catholic ethos throughout the school day during worship and prayer times and during RE lessons.  

What’s the best thing about the work you do?

The best part about my role as a teacher is having the privilege of not only teaching a child something new but experiencing that 'lightbulb moment' when something clicks for them.

What’s the most challenging aspect of the work you do?

The most challenging part of teaching is being resilient 24/7 and to just 'keeping going' despite tiredness or other challenges. There is a heavy workload, so being resilient is key to surviving! 

What are your three top tips for students considering a career in primary school teaching.

1. Make sure you get experience in a school prior to signing up for training. Don't go in blind. The school environment is intense and fast-paced, make sure you know what you're signing up for. Get a few weeks experience in the classroom first.

2. If you are unsure of what age group to work with, try both!  - Talk to someone that you know who is in teaching about what they enjoy and their challenges - it'll help to give you an idea of what a typical school day/week is like, from someone who is already doing it.

3. Ask youself, how much do I love children/young people! Don't commit to teaching because of the great holidays, do it because you love it!

How did your time at university prepare you for your job?

Being at university meant I was able to meet a really diverse group of people and gave me the skill set to just get on with anyone, this is really valuable in school when dealing with both children, colleagues and parents alike.

Academically, university prepared me for independent working and research, which has equipped my planning and prepared me for working in a team too, both of which are fundamental to my job role.