Joline reflects on moving from Germany for her teacher training

Before the start of teacher training, I was worried about feeling like a stranger, and like I did not belong in an English high school. It's crazy what can happen when you're brave enough to take a leap... 

I only came to England earlier this year; knowing that I wanted a change of career, knowing it should be in a school, not knowing how to get there without any experiences or even a native level of English. As a person who always preferred learning on the job over theoretical learning, I couldn't find the right way into teaching in Germany as you've got to sit 5 years at university first before you can finally use your gained knowledge as a teacher in classroom. I don't feel like I need to say that it wasn't the right thing to do. 

I was incredibly happy when I got offered a place in the Redhill SCITT. Being in a school, while learning the necessary skills in additional sessions outside of school, is fantastic. And my first couple weeks at my placement school have been more than amazing. 

Because what I found is: colleagues who find it fascinating having a person with a background other than English in the school, fellow trainees who are in the same boat and help wherever they can, bravery that comes when you stand in front of 30 children who want to be taught by you, and pride for taking this leap.

I can only recommend doing SCITT training as it gives you the chance to become a great teacher through learning from other great teachers, and more important, in a safe environment where children are keen to hear what you've got to say. Even the academic part, which we do at NTU, is interesting now as it fills the gaps we don't fill at school. 

...and all of a sudden I am part of the furniture in an English high school, and all thoughts and worries are gone!

Joline Kaerber, MFL trainee