Teaching Personal Statement

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

My ambition is to one day become a teacher. Personally, I have had a hugely positive experience of both primary and secondary education. I am applying for primary education because I feel I have the potential to inspire and encourage children of all abilities to reach their full potential. In addition, I am also applying for a History degree, as this would give the option of studying a P.G.C.E. after completing my undergraduate studies. During my education, I have consistently enjoyed History, especially the early modern era up until the 20th Century, a period that I find fascinating. My favourite aspect of History is researching about my family and local history. Having the long-term goal of becoming a teacher, I believe that I am well suited to this vocation.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

During my education, I have consistently enjoyed History, especially the early modern era up until the 20th Century, a period that I find fascinating. My favourite aspect of History is researching about my family and local history. In school, I have been an active member of the Eco-School's Committee, holding the position of Chairperson for four years. Furthermore, as a member of the Omagh Academy History Society I have enjoyed going to debates and lectures from renowned historians such as Senia Paseta, Richard Grayson and Philip Orr. My positive experiences on work placement and voluntary work with the Anchor Boys section of Boys' Brigade have cemented my decision to apply for my chosen courses.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

My work experience allowed me to experience life in a primary school setting from a teacher's perspective. I enjoyed the way that every day is different and that each child is unique. On a Wednesday morning during my free periods, I have arranged a work experience placement at a local primary school. This has given me a great insight into the work of primary school teachers, together with the challenges and situations they encounter. I have been able to provide extra support for individual pupils who are underachieving in literacy and numeracy, and encourage them to learn. My interpersonal skills have improved immensely as I have to communicate with children from Primary 1 to Primary 7 with different abilities, religions and cultures. It is both challenging and extremely enjoyable. The most enjoyable aspect for me is helping with small group work and projects with Primary 3 to 7 classes, assisting the pupils in lessons such as Mathematics and English or using ICT as an educational and motivational tool. It is very rewarding as I see pupils who struggled in these areas improve. As further evidence of my patient and caring nature, I have taken part in the school's Community Care programme in which I visited a residential care home once a week where I conversed with the residents. It was enjoyable to hear about their childhood experiences and the past from their personal points of view. This programme has aided me in being more approachable, confident and trustworthy as I performed songs for residents on guitar, accordion and voice, and read novels and poems to them. Outside of school, I am a member of Boys' Brigade. I have recently achieved my President's Award and I am working towards my Queen's Badge. To gain more experience working with children, I help in the Anchor Boy section for boys aged between 4 and 7. It is my responsibility to plan and deliver games, bible verses, bibles stories and drill. I also enjoy music and play a wide range of instruments including the lambeg drum, accordion, guitar and flute. I am currently working towards my Grade 5 on guitar and am heavily involved within the Omagh Community Youth Choir, previously singing with the choir as support act for the Red Hot Chilli Pipers in the SSE Arena, Belfast. From my work placement, I have seen how important it is for primary school teachers to be able to play musical instruments at school concerts and events. I am an enthusiastic member of Fintona Taekwondo Club. It has taught me to be resilient, determined, courteous and self-disciplined. This sport has helped me to maintain physical fitness and I would hope to continue with taekwondo at university as I find it an excellent way to de-stress.