PGCE Application

My Personal Statement

I have always had a passion to teach and my experiences in schools have increased this desire. I have an emphatic interaction with children and I believe I have the commitment and qualities to develop into an effective teacher.

During my numerous work placements through observation and direct involvement, I have learnt many of the key skills necessary to motivate children and to facilitate their learning by engaging them in a variety of learning experiences. I understand the necessity of sharing the learning objectives and success criteria with the pupils and I have appreciated that children are individuals who learn in different ways and that differentiation in the classroom is essential.

Taking part in the Student Associate Scheme was a fulfilling and fantastic experience for me. I thoroughly enjoyed the three weeks I spent with the children. I not only learnt about the teaching process but also learnt a lot about myself. During this placement I was given the responsibility of teaching small groups. This enabled me to use my initiative and to utilise a variety of techniques to engage the children in a safe learning environment, carrying out any rewards or sanctions.

Both my parents are teachers and living with them and this placement has given me the insight of the dictation required to become a successful teacher. During my work placement in a Special Needs School I appreciated that having enthusiasm and presence were essential qualities. Engaging children is not always easy. An assertive nature and the ability to adapt and use a variety of learning techniques is vital.

I was a Sunday School teacher for a number of years. I prepared tasks, including worksheets to engage the children, as well as being informative I made the learning experience fun. I joined the community service scheme while I was at college and visited a primary school every Wednesday afternoon. I assisted the teachers and experienced a variety of tasks including helping preparing the lessons, marking pupils work, putting up displays and working with children on a one to one basis, helping them to develop their literacy and numeracy skills. I thoroughly enjoyed the rapport I had with the children and I appreciated that they believed that fairness in the classroom is very important to them.

Recently I have worked as I volunteer in Manchester Children Hospital. Working with children with illnesses has made me realise that a positive attitude is essential no matter what the difficultly is. Art can be an invaluable form of therapy for children with physical and mental health issues.

Whilst studying for my degree I have also experienced the skills appropriate for a teaching vocation. Working in groups has made me appreciate the value of teamwork and listening skills. Delivering presentations on a regular basis has enabled me to develop my leadership skills. For my dissertation, I chose to write about creativity in education. Through this, I have learnt the importance of allowing children to express their own ideas and that they should be encouraged to take risks in the classroom. I have recently taken part in voluntary work at Manchester Art Gallery. This involves helping children during family activity days. I am really looking forward to continuing my work with children. I am excited about enrolling on a PGCE course and making my long held goal to become a successful and handworking teacher a reality.