Abbie Holmes

Maths Teacher

I had heard great things about Leeds Trinity; two of my close friends had completed Religious Education PGCEs there and both were approaching senior roles in their schools only two years in.

My career before teaching

Prior to becoming a teacher, I completed a BA (Hons) Education Studies degree. Alongside my degree, I worked for agencies in Yorkshire as both a Care Support Worker for the elderly/disabled and as a supply teacher. The supplying teaching experience led me into my first unqualified teaching post where I taught Maths to KS3/4 for two years at an Outstanding Catholic school in Harrogate.

Why I chose Leeds Trinity to complete my teacher training

I ‘d heard great things about Leeds Trinity; two of my close friends had completed Religious Education PGCEs there and both were approaching senior roles in their schools only two years in. Also, I felt the campus was cosy and not too busy. The last thing I wanted was to be bombarded with first year students and loud working spaces. It was a professional and friendly atmosphere with everything nearby.

My teacher training experience at Leeds Trinity

My experience was fantastic, it has to be said! My course tutor, Catherine Bell, was one of the most inspirational, helpful and knowledgeable people I have ever come across. Her wisdom is endless and the same can be said for Ed Podesta, the academic group lead. The support was always there across all courses, the deadlines were not too much to ask and providing you were organised and willing to ask questions (and read the handbook once in a while!), it was a really enjoyable experience! One I much preferred to my undergraduate experience.

Continued support

Support is always available from my former course tutor and I am almost certain that is reciprocated across the different subjects. Leeds Trinity are always eager to help graduates and you can see from their mailing system they are eager to stay in touch.

My inspiration to be a teacher

My Secondary school Maths teacher was initially the reason why I wanted to work in such a rewarding career. He somehow managed to transform a then demotivated, disinterested teenager into somebody that believes in themselves and who apparently loves maths! Despite being told by my Year 6 primary school teacher I didn't have a 'brain for numbers', my secondary teacher led me to achieving 100% in one of my GCSE Higher papers and I was put in for Statistics GCSE one year early! He was fantastic!

What I love most about teaching

By far the best bit about teaching is the "ohhh, I get it now" response from students (even if sometimes there are misconceptions entangled, haha!). Also, the day-to-day contact with such a wide variety of individuals who have brilliant (and sometimes, challenging) personalities and enthusiasm for life! No day is the same in school and you are never staring at the clock, the time absolutely flies by.

My advice to those considering a career in teaching

The best bit of advice for me is... GET ORGANISED! It can either break you or make you and if you are organised, hardworking and driven it will be the most incredible career that you will struggle to pull away from! I love it.