Katie Walsh

What was it about the ITT course at Newman that made you decide to enrol?

I chose the course at Newman as I liked the idea of having A-Level experience, as well as a secondary placement. I thought this was different to what other courses offered and therefore would stand out on an application. Newman also appealed to me as the placement schools on offer were a small cohort and all local to the area. I also liked the approach the College took, with the development being completed at the College rather than many days at university.

What was your experience of placement(s)?

My first placement at Newman was challenging but very rewarding. The subject knowledge of the A-Level was difficult, but the support from the College was fantastic and couldnʼt be faulted. This continued throughout my second placement at Priory High School in Penwortham. The School was excellent and I was treated as a member of staff and had great support throughout my placement from both the school and Newman. I even got to experience a school trip to Paris!

Why did you want to become a teacher?

I wanted to become a teacher because I have a passion for teaching and geography. I always knew I wanted to teach and having spent two years after university travelling and working within different industries, I knew teaching was what I really wanted to do. Teaching is such a rewarding job and although challenging and demanding at times, the feeling of making a difference and inspiring young people makes it worthwhile.

What have you gone on to do since gaining your PGCE?

I am now a secondary school Geography teacher at St Bedeʼs RC High School. I have also taken on the role of managing the year 7 SoW and helping out with running the bronze Duke of Edinburgh award.

Did the ITT course at Newman meet your expectations?

The Newman course met my expectations and more. Although obtaining a PGCE is demanding and challenging, and this was the case throughout, Newman and my placement school supported me through it. My mentor had experience of being a mentor and offered the support needed whilst also ensuring I developed as a teacher. The support of others on my course was great too, we became a little family and gave each other ideas, positive thoughts and a shoulder to cry on throughout, and weʼre still in touch a year later. As itʼs a small course, you instantly begin to support each other even though there are many different subjects. I would recommend the ITT course at Newman to anyone.