Embarking on the journey of becoming a teacher through a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) program is both an exhilarating and demanding experience. Each day is filled with new challenges, opportunities for growth, and moments that reinforce the passion for teaching. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day in the life of a PGCE student.

Morning Routine: Setting the Tone for the Day

The day begins early, often before the sun has fully risen. After the usual morning rituals of getting ready and grabbing a quick meal, I head out to catch my first of two, sometimes three, buses. The commute, though lengthy, offers a moment of solitude to mentally prepare for the day ahead.

Arrival and Preparation: The Calm Before the Storm

I usually arrive at the school by 8:00 am, giving me a precious window to enjoy a much-needed cup of coffee and ensure all my materials for the day are in order. This time is crucial for gathering my thoughts, finalizing lesson plans, and setting up the classroom.

Form Time: Building Connections

As a trainee teacher, having a form group is a valuable experience. This brief period with my form group allows me to build rapport with the students, understand their needs, and address any issues they might have. It’s a time for fostering a sense of community and providing support, setting a positive tone for their day.

Teaching and Planning: The Heart of the Day

After form time, the day truly kicks into high gear. If I’m scheduled to teach, I dive into delivering lessons, managing the classroom, and engaging students in their learning. Each lesson is a blend of meticulous planning and the flexibility to adapt on the fly based on the students’ responses and needs.

On days when I’m not teaching, the focus shifts to planning for upcoming lessons. This involves creating detailed lesson plans, preparing resources, and aligning activities with the curriculum. Additionally, balancing this with university assignments can be quite demanding, requiring effective time management and organizational skills.

Break Time: Engaging with Extracurricular Activities

Break times are often bustling with activity as well. Sometimes, I assist with after-school clubs or run an animation club during break times. These extracurricular activities are wonderful opportunities to interact with students in a more relaxed setting, nurturing their interests and talents outside the classroom.

Professional Development: Continuous Learning

Another crucial aspect of the PGCE experience is continuous professional development (CPD). We often have CPD sessions designed to enhance our teaching skills and stay updated with the latest educational practices. These sessions are integral to our growth as educators, providing fresh insights and practical strategies to implement in our teaching.

Collaboration and Reflection: Learning from Peers and Mentors

Collaboration with colleagues and mentors is a cornerstone of the PGCE experience. Whether it’s seeking advice from experienced teachers, discussing strategies with fellow trainees, or receiving feedback from my tutor, these interactions are invaluable for professional development. Reflecting on the day’s experiences and feedback helps in refining my teaching approach and growing as an educator.

The Journey Home: Unwinding and Reflecting

After a full day at school, the bus ride home offers a chance to decompress and reflect on the day’s events. It’s a time to think about what went well, what could be improved, and how to implement changes for future lessons. Despite the exhaustion, there’s a deep sense of fulfillment in knowing that each day brings me closer to becoming a skilled and effective teacher.

Balancing Work and Life: Finding Time for Self-Care

The life of a PGCE student is undeniably hectic, but it’s essential to find moments for self-care. Whether it’s spending time with family and friends, engaging in hobbies, or simply unwinding with a good book, these activities are vital for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Conclusion: An Enriching Journey

The PGCE journey is a whirlwind of learning, teaching, and personal growth. Every day presents new challenges and triumphs, making it an enriching and rewarding experience. Despite the demands and exhaustion, the passion for teaching and the desire to make a positive impact on students’ lives make it all worthwhile. Each day in the life of a PGCE student is a step closer to becoming a dedicated and inspiring educator, ready to shape the future of countless young minds.

Written by Kareemah, current PGCE student at The University of Manchester

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