Staff Profile

Starting my initial teacher training with NIoT@Harris was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Coming into the UK education system as someone who hadn’t studied here myself, I was determined to understand it inside out and not only to teach the subject I’m passionate about but also to truly make a difference in the lives of my students.

I trained as a computing teacher, it's both my degree field and my passion. I’ve always loved computing for its mix of logic, creativity, and real world impact. But teaching it, is totally a different challenge. In the early weeks of my first placement, I had to quickly adapt to unfamiliar terminologies, policies, and school routines. It was overwhelming at first, but the support from my mentor and my NIoT tutor gave me the confidence and tools I needed.

One of the most powerful aspects of the programme was the way it combined theory with practice. The timing of scaffolds and units was so well thought out. The first thing we learned was behaviour management and building relationships, which became the foundation of everything else. We rehearsed new techniques and strategies and applied them immediately in the classroom. Each time I tried something new, I could see its impact on my students and my own development. I learned to use assessment not just to measure progress, but to guide it. I also came to understand the importance of cognitive science, routines, meaningful feedback, and different questioning techniques.

The subject training days were also helpful, full of pedagogical insights and subject related content. Thanks to this holistic, well researched approach, I genuinely believe we received the best training available. I used to say I came into this programme with an empty toolbox, but I’ve finished it with a full set of practical tools that work across a range, if not all, of the teaching areas and challenges. Of course, there were tough moments. Like many new teachers, I initially struggled with behaviour management and often questioned whether I was making a difference or if my students were receiving the learning they deserve. But with time, feedback, and a great deal of reflection, I found my voice and my confidence.

By the end of the training, I was confidently teaching a mixed timetable across KS3, KS4, and KS5, including GCSE Computer Science, iMedia, BTEC, and A-Level Computer Science. I was proud to receive two job offers by the end of the training year, which is a clear evidence of the impact of the training I received. Now, I work full time at a Harris Academy and continue to develop my practice with a strong sense of purpose and pride, and I actively work to create a classroom environment where all students feel they belong.

To anyone thinking of starting their teaching journey: Trust the process, it won’t always be easy, but you’ll constantly learn and grow, and the impact you’ll make is worth every single challenge.