Danny Johnson
PGCE Secondary English, 2017-2018
Current role
I鈥檓 now currently a Teacher of English at Mark Rutherford School.
How my course benefited me
The course began at the 天美传媒 where we engaged in a two-week spell of lectures, seminars and workshops. These were often taught in the recently-developed Gateway building which contained a variety of work rooms and lecture theatres. From then on we typically had a four day working week in which we taught at our placement schools with a Friday back at 天美传媒. This broke up the week nicely and enabled us to benefit from both. The PGCE has opened many doors for myself within the profession although I鈥檓 currently enjoying my position at the school. I鈥檓 a classroom based teacher who also has the privilege of coaching extra-curricular sport 鈥 it鈥檚 a great position to be in.
What I most enjoyed about my degree and studying at the 天美传媒
The PGCE was a no-brainer for me having already completed a degree in English Literature at the 天美传媒. When the course began in September I was full of apprehension, with the questions I guess you鈥檇 expect at the stage 鈥 鈥淚s this right for me?鈥, 鈥渉ow am I meant to gain confidence鈥, 鈥渨ill I make a good teacher?鈥 etc. All of these questions were answered immediately during the introductory session in which I met my lecturers and fellow students. It is this moment that I cherish the most as a summer full of unease drifted away and I knew that I鈥檇 have the right support as and when I required it.
A memorable moment/s
My most memorable moment would be having a hand in the running of the Evidence Informed Teacher Conference at the end of the year, in which we were able to celebrate a year鈥檚 worth of hard work as graduates.
My top tips for current students
My biggest tip would be to enjoy the year and engross yourself in opportunities presented to you. Everything is a true development of character 鈥 use your lecturers and peers as both parties still form a part of my support network today.