Trainee Spotlight | Jo Lethbridge - Primary 5-11

Give a little background about your teaching career so far – how many years teaching, schools, age groups, subject specialisms, leadership roles…
I have been lucky enough to gain experience in Reception, Year 1 and Year 4 across two schools, and have furthered my role through observing a multitude of other years and interventions. I have worked previously as an Au Pair and nanny which first inspired my career working with children inspiring them and encouraging them to love their learning throughout their time in the education setting. I am excited to move into my role as a KS1 teacher in September. 

Why did you want to be a teacher?
I love being able to inspire children, encouraging them to find fun in everything they do. I want to build a supportive and warm environment where children feel safe and happy each day, and find seeing the progress that children show throughout their time at school so incredibly rewarding. 

Why did you choose Exeter Consortium Schools’ Alliance as your training provider? 
The placement-based route was something that really appealed to me, being able to immerse ourselves into the classroom and learn practically has really helped me with my practise and I feel has prepared me excellently for my role as an ECT and into my future career. The skills they teach us have been incredibly helpful, and really aid us in refining our practise and supporting our pupils in the best way possible, setting high expectations and striving for their best.

What were your favourite aspects of the course?
Being able to meet like-minded people and being immersed into subject-specific training weekly during the first few terms. This prepared us for each area of our practise and being able to meet others in the same position was amazing for our wellbeing and reflecting on our time as trainees. 

Did you find Exeter Consortium to be supportive and welcoming?
Exeter Consortium has been so supportive and welcoming. I could not have found a more supportive programme to be a part of. The care that the team put into our training and any support we require goes above and beyond and I am incredibly grateful for all of their help throughout my training year. My trainee colleagues are all kind and supportive, and I have made friends for life.

Exeter Consortium strive to be inclusive and committed to Equal opportunities. Are you able to comment on any way in which you found this to be the case?
Exeter Consortium provide each and everyone of us with the support and opportunities available to our cohort, we are all included in every activity and discussion where possible and it truly feels like a community between both the team and and us as trainees.

Describe your time training to teach in three words:
Inspiring, Exciting, Knowledgable

What advice would you give to prospective trainee teachers?
Choosing to begin my career as a Primary teacher was the best decision I have ever made. My advice would be to take every opportunity, don’t be afraid to ask questions and just to get stuck in! Diving in to our placements head first has prepared me so well for my future practise and built my confidence to be able to believe in myself as an ECT and into my career.

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