"I want my classroom to be a space where all learners feel they are an equal and valued member of the group and are free to engage in discussions and put forward their thoughts and ideas."
What led you to work for PETA?
Born in Stourbridge, I moved to Portsmouth with my mother and sister when I was 4 years old and have lived there ever since. After leaving school, I landed an engineering apprenticeship based in HMNB Portsmouth when I was 18 and decided to take the electrical pathway. Four years later, I completed my apprenticeship as a fully qualified electrician, and worked this role for a further four years.
During my time in the classroom as an apprentice, I formed good relationships with my instructors, who were passionate about their job. At the time they inspired me into thinking teaching could be a profession I could perhaps one day take fulfilment from, so when the opportunity came up to be a trainee instructor at PETA, I couldn't refuse!
What is your role at PETA and what drives you to do what you do?
At PETA I am an instructor, delivering the electrical units of our engineering apprenticeships. I have always been a keen learner; I love to understand how things work! Being able to share that knowledge and play a small role in setting up our apprentices for their future careers is my motivation for being here.
What knowledge and experience do you draw upon for your role?
While working as an electrician, I worked in a range of environments, and on a huge variety of systems/machines. I call upon this experience to make my lessons as engaging and relevant as possible for our learners.
I truly believe we never stop learning; I am always searching for a greater understanding of my profession, which in turn I hope will give our learners the best possible experience at PETA. Having been an apprentice myself, I understand how important this is.
How do you approach your role on a day-to-day basis? What skills are required?
Every day is its own story so I try to be as flexible and adaptable as I can, so I'm ready for whatever challenges may arise. As well as knowledge, I believe patience and understanding are key to successful teaching.
I am always trying to better myself. So, as a trainee, as well as generally, I'm willing to put in the work it will take to get to where I want to be.
What is your teaching style?
I want my classroom to be a space where all learners feel they are an equal and valued member of the group and are free to engage in discussions and put forward their thoughts and ideas. I understand that people learn in different ways, so I believe it's important to deliver utilising a variety of methods, so everyone gets something from the session.
What are you passionate about outside of work?
Outside of work I am passionate about music and nature. I love to attend gigs and concerts, and go away on breaks to see the world as often as I can. When I get home, I find contentment in playing guitar and doing my best to keep my houseplants alive!
What are your personal values, and what is important to you?
I value morality, empathy, and passion above all else. As well as being important to me personally, I believe these values to be essential in my job. Caring about my role and our learners means I will deliver to the highest quality I can.