We spoke to Bridey Rees (PGCE Secondary (Modern Foreign Languages) 2023) about starting out as a newly qualified teacher and finding her teaching feet.

My Journey to Success as an Early Career Teacher   

Embarking on a career in teaching is an exciting yet challenging journey and my experience has been no different. After completing my PGCE at CCCU, I have started to navigate the highs and lows of the profession, ultimately finding a place where I can thrive and make a real impact. 

My time at CCCU provided me with the essential skills and knowledge to step into my teaching career with confidence. The course offered extensive hands-on experience through placements, allowing me to develop my classroom management skills, lesson planning techniques, and adaptability. This was crucial in preparing me for the realities of teaching and ensuring that I am equipped to create a positive and stimulating learning environment. 

Overcoming Initial Challenges

Like many newly qualified teachers, my first teaching role was not an easy one. I started in a school which wasn’t the right fit for me and the transition from trainee to full-time teacher was daunting. Despite my enthusiasm and preparation, I faced obstacles that made me question my abilities. However, the resilience and skills I developed during my course helped me persevere. The support network I built at CCCU and the strong pedagogical foundations I had gained reassured me that I had the potential to succeed.

Finding the Right Fit and Thriving 

After a challenging start, I was fortunate to secure a role in a fantastic independent school where I have spent the past year growing and flourishing as a teacher. The positive environment, supportive colleagues, and engaged students have enabled me to develop my teaching style and build confidence in my abilities. I have had the opportunity to explore innovative teaching methods, take on additional responsibilities, and continue learning from experienced educators. 

What advice would you give to someone who is considering the course?  

Embrace the challenges, seek support when needed, and never stop striving for growth. The road may not always be smooth, but with the right foundation and mindset, success is always within reach.

In what ways did you change and develop throughout your course?  

My time at CCCU was instrumental in shaping me into the teacher I am today. From the very beginning, I felt supported and heard by my mentors, who provided invaluable guidance and encouragement. Their unwavering belief in my abilities helped me build the confidence necessary to step into the classroom and face the challenges of teaching head-on. The training I received was rigorous, practical, and rooted in real classroom experience, preparing me well for the demands of the profession. 

The passion and dedication of my tutor was truly inspiring. Their support, expertise, and encouragement played a crucial role in my development, ensuring that I had the confidence and skills to excel in my teaching career. 

 
“I underwent significant personal and professional growth during my training. I became more adaptable, learning to handle unexpected challenges in the classroom with confidence.”

My ability to manage time and workload improved, as I balanced lesson planning, assessments, and professional development. Additionally, I developed a deeper understanding of student needs and how to tailor my teaching strategies to support diverse learners. Most importantly, I gained a strong sense of self-assurance and resilience, which have been invaluable in my teaching career. 
 

What was the most challenging part of your course? How did you tackle this and what did you learn as a result?  

One of the most challenging aspects of my PGCE was having the perseverance to continue and believing in myself. There were moments when self-doubt crept in, and the workload felt overwhelming. However, pushing through those difficult times and trusting in my capabilities allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. With the encouragement of my mentors and peers, I learned that resilience and confidence are key to success in teaching. 

Find out more about Routes into Teaching.