Gemma Turner-Lindley

Philosophy and Ethics teacher, Allerton Grange High School

I didn't have a great experience at school and so part of my choice to get into teaching was about contributing to students having a better experience at school than I had.

Why I wanted to be a teacher

I wanted to get into teaching mainly because I enjoyed working with young people. I didn't have a great experience at school and so part of my choice to get into teaching was about contributing to students having a better experience at school than I had. It sounds cheesy but it really was about making a difference.

Why I chose Leeds Trinity to complete my teacher training

I had completed a degree in Theology at Leeds Trinity and then worked for a year in the Students' Union as Vice-President, so I'd experienced life from a student and staff point of view and knew that I would be looked after. The Education Department has a reputation that precedes it, and so there was no other choice for me. 

What I love most about teaching

I love working with the students - they can be some of the funniest, complex, compassionate and inspiring people to work with and I learn from them as much as they learn from me. It makes the workload absolutely worth it.

My teacher training experience at Leeds Trinity

The level of support that I received was amazing - there was always someone on hand to help or offer advice. There were times when I wanted to throw in the towel and change my career plans, but the staff at Leeds Trinity supported me and got me through it in one piece!

Keeping close links with Leeds Trinity

Since graduating, I have had the opportunity to keep up to date with developments in education at Leeds Trinity by taking part in subject networks, mentoring students, helping with interviews for PGCE students and assessing their research presentations. It's also allowed me to build up a network of contacts with other schools and colleges that I rely on in my current role.

My advice to anyone considering a career in teaching

Before you make a decision, get into a school to get some experience of different roles in education to make sure that a teaching role is right for you. Don't decide to teach it if you think it's all about the holidays! It's a tough job; it's not for the faint of heart. It will give you some of the worst and the best experiences of your life, but if you think it's for you and you commit to it, it will be worth every second.