What Classroom Experience Or Work With Young People Did You Have Before Starting Your Initial Teacher Training Course, And How Has This Experience Been Beneficial During Your ITT Course? by Hamna Razaq 

Before starting my initial teacher training, I had valuable experience working with young people, particularly those with Special Educational Needs. Growing up in an extended family with many people around me, I was able to see first-hand how people learn differently. A few of them had SENs and seeing their struggle fuelled my passion for helping others.

Observing the people close to me, realising the affect school had on them and the way their teachers supported them made me want to help make that difference. I often helped them with subjects such as maths, and this early exposure to their diverse learning needs fuelled my passion for helping others, particularly those who face additional challenges in their education.

By using techniques like modelling and scaffolding to support their learning, I found that when students finally grasped a concept, it was not only an achievement for them but also for me. That sense of accomplishment gave me a rewarding feeling, and it strengthened my desire to continue helping students succeed in education.

Whilst beginning my ITT I’ve been able to apply this experience by adjusting tasks to meet a range of abilities, ensuring that every student can engage with the lesson to the best of their ability, for example in a recent year 7 class I used balance scales when teaching solving equations, to help students who were struggling with the topic visualise the concept of balancing equations. 

I learned early on that a teacher can never fully know what challenges a child might be facing outside the classroom. This has been very beneficial during my ITT course in making me realise there’s a lot more that goes on behind the scenes. It has helped me approach teaching with a supportive mindset, where the focus is not just on delivering content but also on creating an environment that acknowledges and responds to the needs of each student. I value supporting people in their growth, whether through academic achievement or by encouraging them to become the best versions of themselves.

Whilst helping my relatives with SENS I have seen how the extra support can help these students and how the encouragement from a teacher can positively impact their academic journey. Having access to a teacher who is willing to adapt their teaching to ensure educational success and achieve progression is necessary for all students.

I want to utilise this experience during my ITT year to ensure every child feels encouraged to succeed, regardless of their background or challenges. As I progress in my training, I want to use this experience, always remembering that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, and that as a teacher, I have the opportunity to make that happen. 

By Hamna Razaq

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