What's your current job?

Since my PGCE training year at Warwick in 2011/12, I have steadily progressed through various roles to my current position. I completed my NQT year in my main placement training school, before accepting a Head of Key Stage 3 English role in the same institution.

In January 2014, I accepted a similar position in my current school (as Lead Practitioner for Key Stage Three English) and, in June 2015, I was promoted to the post of Head of English.

What advice would you give to others interested in teaching?

Working in education is an incredibly rewarding profession. Witnessing students' creativity, excellence and intellectual curiosity on a daily basis is, of course, a huge draw; you will work long days and there will be a rollercoaster of emotions but, speaking from experience, the more you put in, the more you'll get out!

Why did you choose this career?

A combination of factors influenced my decision to enter the profession. I have a huge passion for my subject and its importance in every aspect of life. But, at its core, my educational outlook is rooted in a desire to give back to an education system that was so good to me.Further to this, having worked in schools with disadvantaged students, I have seen the extra challenges that children face in accessing a basic right: a life-changing, horizon-broadening education.

What's the best thing about teaching?

Every August results day! Having been through years of joy and desperation with your Year 11 or 13 cohorts, it is great to see the success and excitement for opportunity that glitters in students' eyes. Knowing that their outcomes are down to a combination of hard work, self-belief and a deep-rooted passion for learning.