My Journey into Teaching - Sally Barrett
Making a Difference
In my early twenties, fresh from a Psychology BSc and on the brink of graduation, I had no clear career path in mind and was filled with uncertainty about my future. I knew I wanted to work in the public sector and make a meaningful difference in people's lives but the path to achieving this was unclear. Inspired by a friend who had enrolled in a postgraduate nursing course, and without a better option, I decided to follow suit and applied.
True Calling
While waiting for my nursing course to begin, I spent the summer working at a playscheme run by the local authority for homeless families. This experience was nothing short of transformational for me. Working with my group every day for five weeks was a privilege and allowed me to connect deeply with the young people and their families.
I loved going to work each morning and immersed myself in planning activities, resolving issues and building trust. It became clear to me that my true calling was to work with children, and teaching seemed the obvious path forward. With this newfound clarity, I withdrew from the nursing course and set my sights on applying for teacher training and embarking on a career in education.
Hands On Experience
Having missed the application deadline for teacher training, during the next academic year I decided to volunteer part-time at a local primary school. This experience was invaluable, confirming my desire to teach and provided me with hands-on experience that would prove crucial in solidifying my passion and commitment to the profession. I later completed my final teaching practice at this very school.
Fulfilling Career
Fast forward 40 years, and I am still working in education. I have enjoyed a varied and rewarding career, taking on roles such as Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) and Headteacher.
Teaching is not without its many challenges but, in my experience, the rewards far outweigh them. My journey into teaching began with uncertainty and a leap of faith, but it has led to a fulfilling career that has allowed me to make a lasting impact.