Primary Alumni Spotlight: Mia

In this case study, Mia highlights the invaluable support she has received throughout her teacher training journey, from dedicated mentors and course leaders to a strong peer network. Her experience shows how a nurturing and compassionate training environment can make a profound difference, helping trainees grow in confidence while feeling consistently cared for and supported.

When I was at school, there were some teachers that made the learning experience memorable and I wanted to be that person for children too. I’ve seen children who have come to school and they’ve not eaten, they’ve not been asked if they’re OK, they’ve not had a hug. As their teacher, I’m that one person who can do that for them. For me, teaching is about nurturing a safe and supportive space for children to learn and thrive.

I first completed a foundation year, then a three-year degree at University of Derby so I found I was ready for a change from lectures, to just getting stuck in and having a go. When I was looking at teacher training providers, I liked the SCITT route, because of the hands on opportunities that you’re given through being in a school constantly. I found out about Inspiring Leaders Teacher Training through someone who had already applied and who is now also on the course. She had just had her interview and had such a positive experience so she recommended you to me.

I have taught a range of year groups throughout my training year, from year 1 to 6 which I have welcomed because I’m able to gain experience across a range of ages. The course trainers are often the teachers within the placement schools. For example, our teaching and learning trainer, Michelle, will also be my learning coaching class mentor in my third term placement school. So even though I’m going to a brand new school and for me, that is daunting, the fact that I already know her, is very reassuring. I can’t tell you how many new people I’ve met this year and how many people I know that I can reach out to for support.

In terms of support The first person I have to mention is Chantelle, the SCITT Lead for the Primary Notts/Derbys course. There was a point where I had a personal change in my life. I worried about how it would affect my training, but Chantelle reassured me and regularly checked in to see how I was feeling. I have a class mentor and learning coach who share their expertise. For me, the most helpful part is when they just pick up on all the little things that becomes part of a teacher’s routine, but that trainees have to learn. My class mentor is the most organised person I’ve ever met and she has taught me little strategies to support organisation. My professional tutor, Ali is also really supportive. I have been able to open up to her which has really helped me because she always remembers bits about my life.

My peers are also very supportive. We set up a WhatsApp group at the beginning of the year which has helped with all our questions and has reassured me that no question is too silly. It’s kind of nice to know that we’re all in the same boat and it’s happening to everybody. We go through everything together. If I didn’t have the group support, I think it would be very different.

You have to remember, you are a human and look out for yourself and each other. I’m one of the course reps and I was asked to keep an eye out for anyone who might be struggling, so that Chantelle can step in and support where appropriate. It could be so easy for the programme leaders to just ignore that and have the mindset of “You’re here for your training, you’re here for the school, and you’re here for the children” and push well-being aside, but this doesn’t happen. It’s really reassuring to have that support because it can be really hard sometimes. I’ve never experienced someone who doesn’t care. In my current school, everybody’s always asking how you are, if they can do anything to help me and I really appreciate it. That kind of caring approach fosters not just professional growth but personal well-being too.

If I could offer one piece of advise for new trainees it would be to trust yourself. You’re doing this for a reason. Don’t forget to remind yourself that you can do it even when you think you can’t. I’ve had weeks where I’ve started out feeling really positive. I’ve got to the middle of the week and feel I’m just crumbling, and then by the end of the week, it’s picked back up and I wondered why I was worried. If Inspiring Leaders didn’t think it was for you, they wouldn’t have offered you a place so you need to trust yourself and trust their judgement too.