Elis Dixon: Primary SCITT Trainee 2021/22
" I grew up in one of the most financially deprived areas of West Yorkshire - I have seen first-hand how an exceptional, knowledge-rich educational experience can be a catalyst for change, especially for working-class children like me. Inspired by these fantastic teachers, I began to envision my own classroom, my students and how I would teach from a very young age"
Elis Dixon Primary SCITT trainee.
Elis provides a great insight into her motives for starting a career in teaching. Her interview is jam packed full of sage advice on gaining school experience, the role of a trainee teacher and praise and admiration for her Teaching Assistant!
I began to study Education Studies at Sheffield Hallam University in 2018 – I applied for the Sheffield SCITT during my final year, choosing to do the 3-7 route.
Prior to beginning university and during my studies, I worked as a waitress at TGI Friday’s. Being a waitress was a great way to develop the skills of timing and monitoring, the skill of delivering materials, and the skill of closure that are needed in the management of a classroom.
I began my SCITT journey at Dobcroft Infants in Year 2, I then moved to St Marie’s in the Reception class and I am now completing my training in Year 1 at St Catherine’s.
What made you decide to train to become a teacher?
Although it sounds cliché, I knew I wanted to become a teacher when I was only four years old. All of my teachers, especially during EYFS and Key Stage 1, were a real inspiration to me and they are one of the major reasons I pursued a teaching career. I grew up in one of the most financially deprived areas of West Yorkshire - I have seen first-hand how an exceptional, knowledge-rich educational experience can be a catalyst for change, especially for working-class children like me. Inspired by these fantastic teachers, I began to envision my own classroom, my students and how I would teach from a very young age.
I chose to study Education Studies at degree level to build upon my knowledge and understanding of contemporary education. I was able to study areas that resonated with me such as the achievement gap between children of economically stable backgrounds and economically disadvantaged environments, and the prevalence of mental health problems among pupils. It was without a doubt that I would begin my teacher training as soon as I had completed my degree – although I was accepted on three different programmes, I felt that the Sheffield SCITT was ideal for me.
What qualities do you have that you think will help you in the teaching profession?
My background makes me a patient and approachable person – I think that people feel comfortable talking to me openly and honestly, and I am patient enough to listen and understand what others are going through. This has been beneficial during my teacher training – being approachable has enabled me to make great relationships with pupils, colleagues and parents and being patient has allowed me to persevere and make more productive decisions. This is a quality I aim to retain during my future career.
I am also extremely enthusiastic about all the subjects that I teach. I believe that my enthusiasm has inspired the pupils I have worked with to truly enjoy their learning; this has enabled them to learn and apply themselves better. I am a strong believer that positivity breeds positivity – I will always aim to create an enthusiastic environment for children to thrive in.
“I would strongly recommend gaining experience in a range of different educational settings – it enables you to determine exactly where, who and why you want to teach.
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Did you get any school experience before starting, if so, how did you go about securing some teaching experience?
My college gave me the opportunity to complete work experience alongside studying for my A-levels. I chose to go back to my old primary school, and I was allowed to work in every year group, including Reception.
As part of my university degree, I had to complete three different alternative placements during each level of university – I worked in a primary school, a secondary school and a pupil referral unit. I would strongly recommend gaining experience in a range of different educational settings – it enables you to determine exactly where, who and why you want to teach.
How has your first term of teacher training been?
Teacher training is difficult, but it is endlessly rewarding. During this year, I have learned so many different skills by being in the classroom every day, such as different effective behaviour management techniques and a range of assessment approaches. The HUB sessions have allowed me to accumulate a great deal of knowledge regarding the theory surrounding teaching and learning, and I have then been able to apply this within the classroom.
What responsibilities and tasks have you taken part in at your placement school?
I supported the school’s reading lead in a Read Write Inc workshop for parents – it was great to share my knowledge and discuss how their children were being taught. I also supported the class teacher during parents evening, which has given me the confidence to speak about progress and targets with parents and carers.
What are your favourite aspects of the course so far?
I love how supportive the course is - you can approach anybody at the SCITT, staff members and students, and talk to them about anything. I’ve also had the pleasure of working with some great mentors who have positively impacted my professional and personal development.
Have you found the SCITT to be supportive and welcoming?
Tricia Redfern, the leader of the primary SCITT, is one of the most supportive people I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. Not only this, the fellow students who are currently on the SCITT are extremely encouraging – it is important to remember that each student is doing the exact same thing as you - it is comforting to speak to someone who is also going through the same experiences. Weekly HUB sessions ensure you have the opportunity to speak to other students. once you are a qualified teacher?
Once I become a qualified teacher, without a doubt I am looking forward to having my own classroom and immersing myself into the school life. I am very much invested in my own professional development too, so if any appropriate opportunities were to arise, I would just go for it! I would love to become a mental health lead within school!
Has anything surprised you since starting in the classroom?
No matter which school you are in, the teaching assistant will be your best friend – I have so much respect and admiration for TAs, especially after working so closely alongside them within the classroom.
If you are considering a career change and would like to know more about our training, please join us at our next Get into Teaching open event.
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