In this episode of Train to Teach, Steve shares his unexpected journey from a last-minute PGCE to headteacher and director of education. He reflects on the challenges of leadership, building a school from the ground up, and the rewards of mentoring new teachers.

Plus, hear about classroom chaos, playground mishaps, and an unexpected crackdown on a student-run sweet-selling empire!

Meet Jayde, four months into her Initial Teacher Training course as she explains how five star holidays working in an accounting company just wern't hitting the spot!

Starting with an Open University course that worked around her family, Jayde discusses the highs of training, the power of mentorship, and the joy of feeling part of a school community. From Christmas parties to heartfelt student compliments, she reflects on why teaching is both challenging and deeply rewarding.

In this episode of Train to Teach, we sit down with Jon, a seasoned educator who started his journey teaching English as a foreign language before transitioning to secondary education. He reflects on career prospects, mentorship, and the realities of the classroom—plus a memorable job interview with “Mr. Toothpaste.”

Thinking of training to teach? Jon’s advice: stay positive, embrace challenges, and keep the bigger picture in mind.

Sophie's launch into her teaching journey was a shock to the system. Navigating the depths of east London classrooms, demonstrating questionable levels of determination in a Christmas competition, and even evacuating a school for a WW2 bomb, she mastered the art of resilience. Sophie shares her vital role in supporting students evacuated from Kabul, proving that teachers make the difference. Now a leader in education, she shares the highs, lows, and the most important skill: knowing when to say no!

In this episode, we meet Chris, who has come a long way—from calling the register and roll-calling his cousins as a child to becoming Director of Education for Danes Educational Trust. Chris shares stories of his early mishaps, the blood (oops!), sweat, and fears that shaped his journey, and how he manages the immense responsibility of safeguarding and ensuring the highest quality of education for students across the trust.

A third-year science and PE teacher, who initially aspired to be a footballer or astronaut, discovered a passion for teaching at a young age. During his PGCE, he faced challenges, including a chaotic first placement in an international school, but found the experience rewarding. His early teaching experiences were daunting, especially after a brief stint in primary school, which he decided wasn't for him.

On his first day, he dealt with a broken leg and a dress code misstep, but quickly adapted. After months of uncertainty due to lockdowns and job hunting, he landed a position at Elstree Screen Arts Academy, where he combines his love for science and performing arts.

Welcome to episode three, where we follow Emily's transition from performing on cruise ships to standing in front of a classroom. While she once thrived as an actress and singer, facing thirty students is a whole new challenge. Join us as Emily shares her insights on establishing boundaries, earning respect, and trusting the learning process herself. Stay tuned to learn about the secret language of SULA shared between Emily and her mentor.

In this episode, we're joined by Chris Mitchell, Director Principal of ESA - Elstree Screen Arts Academy. Graduating as a Graphic Designer, he ventured into 3D projection and showcases at Edinburgh Fringe Theatre. Balancing his artistic pursuits, John stumbled into teaching part-time, discovering his passion for collaborative learning. Now, proudly embracing the title of "educationalist," Chris shares his unique journey blending art and education.

Join us as we uncover the story of Chris's evolution from the world of visuals on stage to a visionary in transformative education.