Abigail graduated from the University of West London with a First Class degree in Forensic Science (Crime Scene Investigation). While completing her degree she came across the opportunity to take part in the Pathways to FE teacher training programme (now called Talent to Teach in FE) with CONEL and wanted to be a part of it. Abigail experienced both personal and professional benefits on the programme.
I applied because I was curious about teaching. As I was at the end of my final year at university, I was thinking about developing my career. I was thinking of a career which would help me to give back. I also wanted to develop my skills in reflective writing, which is what the package said we will be doing after each session – this linked in with my final project at university.
I could teach students of any age, both younger people and adults, as well as people from different backgrounds. The students were eager to learn and their enthusiasm made it worthwhile for me. The warm welcome from the college staff running the project helped me to feel like I belong – I was captivated by the warm welcome I received.
It boosted my confidence. My mentor was very patient and supportive and the students enjoyed working with me. On the last day of the programme, my mentor told me I had a good energy with the students and that they asked for me when I wasn’t there. I also learnt to include everyone, gain mutual respect and maintain confidentiality.
I am definitely considering pursuing a career in teaching in some format in the future, even if it is as an additional career, because I want to help others. When I was at CONEL, I realised that there are a lot of people who need help with English and maths and I think I will enjoy teaching them.
I see myself becoming a teacher, because I enjoy seeing people progress. It makes me happy to see them learn to read and understand new words.
Further details about the Talent to Teach in FE programme can be accessed on its web page.