...it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life!

As I began the initial observations as part of the PGCE PE course I was confident that in a years time I would be a teacher ... but, what type of teacher would I become? Could I achieve the respect of pupils and staff alike? Would I be able to control thirty Year 11 children last period on a Friday afternoon? How would I inspire Year 7 boys to enjoy dance lessons?

After just 36 weeks of teacher training I do not claim to have all the answers to becoming an effective teacher. However, the UEA PGCE course has provided me with the ideal preparation for a successful career in teaching.

The university lectures and assignments provided the essential basic skills and ideas in preparation for the teaching practices. It is whilst on teaching practice that you learn the realities of life as a teacher. The two teaching practices illustrate the various roles of a PE teacher. The learning curve was often very steep and I was frequently both mentally and physically shattered. However, the support given by the course tutor and the mentor within school allowed me to develop from a raw, nervous student into a capable and confident teacher.

I had always enjoyed sport and possessed knowledge in a number of sports. However, to be an effective teacher it is essential to have a grasp of a wide range of activities. The diversity of activities offered as part of the course ensured that my knowledge improved in all activities including dance, gym and orienteering. A key element in improving subject knowledge was the sharing of ideas and experiences of fellow trainees. The cohort developed a real sense of unity and trainees were always willing to help each other to develop subject knowledge.

As I reflect on the course now, I can honestly say that it was one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. The course was hard work, demanding, exhausting, but brilliant and extremely rewarding. In fact it mimics life as a "proper" teacher perfectly.

CHOOSE TEACHING...CHOOSE PE...CHOOSE UEA!

Post-course progress:

Within one term of starting his first teaching post Ben is now Acting Head of his Department!