In this episode, Claire talks with Aaron Stevens, a former primary school teacher and now Product Manager at Classroom Secrets.
Aaron studied Law at university but decided instead to train to be a teacher using the Teach First route to qualify which, he explains, is an employment-based route for top-performing graduates. As a part of the course, trainees are deliberately placed in schools in challenging circumstances. More than 50% of the pupils in the schools come from the poorest 30% of families.
Aaron shares some of the strategies he used during his training and as a qualified teacher to help maintain a good LIFE/work balance. He also discusses the support he received from Teach First whilst training and how a strong bond with his mentor within the school enabled him to open up more easily.
Aaron also offers advice for students who are looking to become teachers talking about how it is important to ensure that they are fully prepared for what the job entails. As a part of this, he discusses the importance of experience and how having a positive mindset is crucial.