Trainee Spotlight | Shebion Rives-Roberts - Primary 5-11

Give a little background about your teaching career so far – how many years teaching, schools, age groups, subject specialisms, leadership roles…
Before starting my teacher training, I worked as a classroom assistant in a SEND and SEMH school, supporting children with high needs. Before that, I was at home raising my young family and helping my husband run our family business. My time as a teaching assistant really confirmed how much I enjoyed being in a school setting and working closely with children.

Why did you want to be a teacher?
I've always loved spending time with children and being part of their learning and development. Teaching has always felt like such a meaningful and important role to me - some of my own teachers made a lasting impact, and I’ve looked up to them ever since.

Working in an SEMH setting showed me how powerful a caring, consistent adult can be in a child’s life, and it made me want to be that person for others.

Why did you choose Exeter Consortium Schools’ Alliance as your training provider? 
Exeter Consortium stood out because of its connections with local primary schools in my area. Living in a rural location with a young family, the fact that their partner schools are nearby made a big difference for me. I was also really pleased to see that they work with the University of Exeter, where I did my degree - it felt like a great fit.

What were your favourite aspects of the course?
I really appreciated the school-based approach. Being in the classroom from the very beginning helped me learn so much, especially since I didn’t have a huge amount of experience in mainstream schools before starting the course. It gave me confidence and helped me feel like part of the team early on.

Did you find Exeter Consortium to be supportive and welcoming?
Yes, absolutely. They’ve been kind, approachable, and always ready to help if I needed anything. From the start, they’ve made it clear that we’re supported, and that’s meant a lot during what can be a challenging year.

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?
I’ve really felt that everyone on the course is treated with respect and care, regardless of background or experience. There’s a real focus on inclusion, and the trainers make sure everyone feels heard and valued.

Describe your time training to teach in three words:
Inspiring – Resilient – Growing

What advice would you give to prospective trainee teachers?
Try to get as much experience in mainstream schools as you can before starting - it really helps once the course begins. And don’t be afraid to build relationships early. The teaching community in Devon is small and supportive, and making connections can lead to some lovely opportunities.

If there is anything else you want to add, or tell us about your experiences so far or aspirations for the future, please do!
Be kind to yourself - it’s a learning process and it’s okay to make mistakes. What matters most is that you reflect, stay open to learning, and keep showing up. It’s a tough journey at times, but it’s also so rewarding.