01 MAY 2025
Sophie is one of our teachers based at The Eaves Learning Centre and talks about her journey into the role and life at WG.
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I loved going to school myself and I always thought I wanted to give that back enjoyment back to young people. I originally wanted to be a midwife, but I went to a visit at university which completely put me off! I’ve always known I’ve wanted to work with kids, I was a prefect and I did a lot of volunteering with young people. I have always been interested in child development, learning through play and learning through exploration, I find it fascinating.
What do you love most about working for WG?
I’m coming up to 14 years of teaching with 13 years of that being in mainstream primary schools, so it was a big change starting here in a SEN setting. From being here, I have found my niche; the kids are great, the staff are fantastic, I feel like I belong here. Through my teaching I’ve been able to travel, both abroad and in the UK, I’ve had many opportunities, however I felt like I wasn’t making enough of a difference. I was often with a class of 30 and it felt like there were children there that I wanted to help, but I couldn’t. I felt very limited, however coming here I can be more myself and teach the way I like to teach. Even though the young people are older, they still need that play and exploration. I like to think outside the box, and I have a lot more freedom to do that here.
How has working with WG enhanced your skills and professional growth?
It’s given me more confidence and it’s wonderful to be part of a team who you can express yourself with and bounce ideas off. Because we are such a close-knit group, I feel like I can ask lots of questions. It’s also great to get more of the kids input and having more opportunities to hear what they have to say.
What do you find most rewarding about working with children and young people in your role?
Getting to know our young people really well and adapting what I’m doing to suit them. There is obviously the importance of academic achievements as our young people will need to develop those core skills which will support them in the future, however everything is individualised and you can set work to suit the young person.
Can you tell me about a HSV you’ve had whilst you’ve been at WG?
When I first arrived our young people were a bit wary of me, but seeing those bonds form over time was really rewarding. It’s been really special getting to know them so you can have open and honest conversations which I feel lacks in mainstream.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a teacher?
Remember not all schools are the same and experiences can vary. Doing supply work is great to explore schools and learn which ones you enjoy working in the most. It was also great for developing my behaviour management skills. It’s also important to remember as a newly qualified teacher, the first couple of years can be tough, but it does get easier, you will learn all the tricks of the trade to become more efficient. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, everyone is always learning, and you can’t get it completely right all the time. Everyone is human! Look after yourself, but teaching is incredibly rewarding!
If you want to learn more about life in our education teams, explore below.