I am an alumnus of Loughborough Grammar School and have attained a geography degree at Cardiff University. Whilst at Cardiff University I was a member of the University Officer Training Corps, which was a natural progression from the time I spent in the CCF at Loughborough Grammar School. Following my time at Cardiff University I did my post graduate teacher training at Leicester University.
"I have a keen sense of pride in having helped pupils on their educational journey. It is wonderful to see their achievements as they move through the school."
Before starting my PGCE studies at Leicester University, I spent six months in Ghana teaching primary aged children; which is where I discovered how much I enjoyed working in education.
During my PGCE my placements were in a variety of school settings, from inner city to rural village. Although very different environments, all these schools shared the common aim of engaging children to discover their curiosity and love of learning. Teaching some of the youngest children in school is rewarding and fulfilling, and I am aware every day of the importance of the foundations formed in the early years of school.
An excellent teacher enables children to develop their thirst for knowledge and encourages them to become inquisitive and enquiring. Children should be able to develop a confidence to take risks and to push themselves beyond their own expectations. In early years education they must not be crushed by set-backs, but learn to overcome them and develop an energy and resilience in the process. Throughout school it is important that children develop a moral framework and understand the need to be open and honest.
"My favourite lesson to-date is one in which the children used their imagination to describe what type of dragon might hatch from an egg in my classroom. The sense of awe and wonder the pupils expressed as they imagined the baby animal that might hatch was a joy to see. One pupil even said, "Do you have a cage? I think it is dangerous to let a dragon wander around the classroom Mr Prescott". I really do have the best job imaginable."
As well as classroom teaching, I assist with the Year 4 rugby and football teams. It is rewarding to see the team develop their playing skills and maturity. Away from the sports pitch, I have created a Year 1 gardening club with the aim of extending the children’s knowledge of plants.
Fairfield Preparatory School is a unique environment as it offers specialist teaching in key areas of the curriculum, beyond what is offered elsewhere, such as French and music lessons with dedicated, expert teachers. The classroom spaces are bright and airy, with enough room to work individually or collaboratively in groups. I get to know my pupils well and it is particularly rewarding to see them grow and mature during their time at Fairfield. I have a keen sense of pride in having helped pupils on their educational journey. It is wonderful to see their achievements as they move through the school.
My favourite lesson to-date is one in which the children used their imagination to describe what type of dragon might hatch from an egg in my classroom. The sense of awe and wonder the pupils expressed as they imagined the baby animal that might hatch was a joy to see. One pupil even said, “Do you have a cage? I think it is dangerous to let a dragon wander around the classroom Mr Prescott”. I really do have the best job imaginable.