JOURNEY INTO TEACHING
LOOKING BACK ON DEDICATION IN DECEMBER
CHOOSING PRIMARY SCITT WITH BLUECOAT WAS THE BEST DECISION FOR ME!
Before starting the course in September, I was completing my Early Childhood degree at Nottingham Trent University. I was keen to pursue a career in teaching because I have always wanted to become a teacher from when I was at primary school myself. Choosing the Primary SCITT route with Bluecoat was the best decision for me; it has provided me with a wide range of opportunities and experiences, working alongside peers who all share the same passion for teaching.
EARLY TEACHING EXPERIENCES
One thing that really surprised me about learning to teach is how reflective the process is. A lot of
time is spent analysing your own teaching and adapting based on feedback. At first it felt like another task to tick off, but I quickly realised it was the key to becoming a better teacher. The reflective process allows you to pause and think about what worked well and what didn’t ……
It’s not about criticising yourself; it’s about learning and improving. Teaching for the first time was intimidating, but in hindsight it was rewarding…Once I stepped into the classroom and began, I realised it was far less daunting than I had imagined. A strategy that really helped me build confidence was taking the time to develop positive relationships with the students in the classroom.
SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT
The guidance from my mentor and the SCITT team has been invaluable, providing consistent support, practical advice and reassurance throughout my journey. Their feedback has helped me grow in confidence and refine my teaching practice every step of the way. Something that has stood out for me was the reading fluency training session; this was an eye‑opening reminder that reading involves not only decoding but also fluency.
STANDOUT MOMENTS
A moment when everything truly clicked for me and my proudest moment yet was at the end of my autumn placement in a year 2 class. Seeing how much progress the children had made by Christmas was incredible. Knowing that this success was a result of a collaborative effort between my mentor and me filled me immense pride- not just in the children, but in myself as a developing teacher. Seeing the pupils respond so positively to my teaching has been incredibly rewarding…
One of the most rewarding moments has been watching their confidence grow as they grasp new concepts. When I adapt my approach – whether through modelling, using visual aids or chunking learning – I notice that children become more engaged and more willing to try their best. Their enthusiasm and progress remind me that the strategies I am being taught, and am using, really make a difference.
LOOKING AHEAD
In my second placement I am really looking forward to developing my confidence within key stage 2 and gaining new knowledge and skills. This feels like an exciting opportunity to challenge myself, deepen my understanding of the curriculum, and develop strategies that will help me grow as a teacher.
ADVICE FOR TRAINING WITH BLUECOAT SCITT
If you are thinking about teacher training, my biggest piece of advice would be to embrace the challenge and stay open to learning. Collaborate with your peers, your mentor and the Bluecoat SCITT team, and celebrate the small wins.
Written by Lauren Wadsley Primary Trainee 25/26 Cohort
