Becky Balshaw

Why did you choose to enrol on the ITT Course at Newman?

I initially applied to the Cardinal Newman Initial Teacher Training Scheme because I wanted to know where my placements would be, which wasnʼt possible via the university route. I also liked the fact that half of the placement was guaranteed to be in a Sixth Form setting so that I could get the most experience as I could – again this isnʼt always the case through other routes. I decided on Newman after the interview because of how welcoming and friendly everyone was – it genuinely made me feel less nervous for starting my teacher training.

How did you find your placements?

My experience on placement was extremely positive throughout. I received the best advice, guidance and support from my department and from my mentors, and the training was really helpful. The students were great and responded well to me which is something I was nervous about when starting to teach. My confidence was developed massively, as well as my teaching, I get praised for the techniques I learnt at Newman and I feel the training programme really has made me a great teacher.

Why did you want to be a teacher?

I wanted to become a teacher because I just love working within the school environment. I love helping students to develop into the best that they can be, not just academically but also in the way they act and behave.

What are you doing now?

Since the PGCE I am now a teacher of RE at Mount St Joseph in Farnworth – it is a really great role which I am enjoying (but I do miss Newman and working in a Sixth Form College terribly). The course exceeded my expectations. I was so sad to leave my first placement and I will never forget it. I feel very lucky to have been on the course and to have spent my placement with such a special department.