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Graduate case studies

Graduate case studies
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Clare - 
Teacher

Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

About the job

Main responsibilities

SEN teacher and maths co-ordinator.

Typical day

Teaching a small class, helping them to access the National Curriculum at an appropriate level. Helping students to manage their behaviour and addressing issues resulting from sensory difficulties and mental health problems. Working as part of a wider team around each student.

Co-ordinating Maths provision across the school.

What do I enjoy about my job?

Helping students to make progress with learning as well as their behaviour and independence skills.

Challenging aspects

Working with students with behaviour that can be very challenging can be draining at times, however rewarding overall. As a teacher, managing workload can be sometimes difficult.

Why did this area of work appeal to me?

I have been interested in ASD for a long time, as well as behaviour. In this job, I am using the knowledge and understanding gained during my undergraduate Psychology studies and applying it in a context that makes a real difference to students' and families' lives.

Skills/qualifications I use in my job?

Use of my knowledge and understanding gained from my undergraduate degree in Psychology, as well as the organisational and analytical skills gained whilst completing my dissertation.

PGCE qualification in Primary Education, gained since completing my studies at Sheffield.

Training I receive as part of my job

Makaton
TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication handicapped Children)
PROCACT SCIP (positive behaviour support)


Career information

Brief history since leaving University

Work as a care assistant in a residential home for adults with mental health difficulties and mild learning disabilities.

Work as an Information and Resource Worker at a Children's centre - providing information for families with children under 5.

Work as a teaching assistant in a middle school, particularly working with students at risk from exclusion.

(Overlapping with #3 and #5)
Work as a support worker for young people with ASD, helping them access activities in the community.

PGCE in Primary Education at Northumbria University, followed by a maternity cover post in a mainstream Primary School before starting work as a teacher in a Special School for students with ASD.

Where do I see myself in the future?

Continuing in the teaching profession, particularly working with students with ASD. I hope to complete a masters at some point.


Advice to students

My piece of advice to students

Make sure you get relevant voluntary or part time experience before leaving university, as it is very hard to get a job without it. However, don't worry if you don't get the perfect job straight away, some of my early jobs after university gave me some really valuable experience that I am applying in my profession.


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Last updated: 09 Apr 2013