Susan Ward 

Name: Susan Ward
Location: Juniper Green Primary, Edinburgh – Primary 1

Winner of UK Teacher of the Year 2006

"I graduated from Glasgow University in 2002 with a degree in English Literature and Film and TV studies and spent the next couple of years working in a variety of jobs including a call centre, a bank and waitressing. I have teaching connections in the family as both my father and uncle are teachers and I always enjoyed working with children so decided to do the PGCE in Primary Teaching at Paisley University, graduating in July 2005.

"The course was really intense but I enjoyed every minute of it and relished the responsibility I was given so early on. You really have to go in with your eyes open and it's up to you to make the most of your placements but I found it helped me to remain focused.

"When I was at high school my dad suggested I should do teaching but it just didn't feel right at the time. However, when I finally came to the decision to do the PGCE it just felt so natural and after my first day at my first placement I knew I had made the right choice – I just felt so happy!

"The most important detail in teaching is communication and finding the best way to get through to the pupils. I've used lots of different tactics with my favourites being music and puppets which the kids respond very well to. It's also vitally important to teach them how to interact with other pupils and for the teacher to be a good role model. It’s all very challenging but I think that makes it such an exciting job.

"Many of the skills I gained from my previous employment are relevant in the classroom especially when it comes to resolving issues. I’m a great believer in how a teacher handles a situation affects the rest of the day with their class. There are lots of feelings involved and if you handle the issue professionally it keeps everybody happy.

"My advice for anyone thinking of a career in teaching is to take the time to make sure it's the right career for you. I was away from my husband and family for a lot of the time I was studying though I do think it was well worth the sacrifice. Teaching is one of the most special jobs you can do, it lights me up from the inside and I miss it so much during the summer holidays that I just can’t wait to get back!"