Trainee Teacher – Secondary Art

Lilith Jennings – Secondary Art Trainee

Teacher testimonial: Why I decided to teach and my journey so far.

Since graduating back in 2013 I have had various job roles, all in which failed to challenge me, inspire me or give me any kind of fulfilment. I hated the thought of being in the job I was in for the rest of my life. After falling pregnant I decided something needed to change, not only for myself but also for my son’s future. I needed something to give me purpose, something that contributed to society and something that would make a difference for the future of the next generation. I couldn’t think of anything more satisfying than teaching a subject that I am passionate about to help shape the young people of today into the adults they are going to become.

I have been a trainee through Manchester Nexus SCITT programme for a week now and already, in such a short period of time, I feel a part of something special. They strive for excellence and push you to be the best teacher that you can be, offering all the support and guidance you could ask for along the way. In my first week I have seen pupils lacking confidence and lifted up to believe that they can achieve something; I have experienced teachers that shine bright and keep smiling despite carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders; and I have had the pleasure of watching and supporting Year 7 pupils starting their very first days at school. I feel truly honoured to be a part of the school’s history, the student’s school memoirs and the excellence that is Blue Coat. I can finally say that I am excited for what the future holds and I would encourage anyone that is considering a career in teaching to just go for it!