What Made You Decide To Apply For A Maths Teacher Training Scholarship?
Last year in March, during a very reflective afternoon, was the day I decided to become a Mathematics teacher trainee; I knew very little about the options that were available to me, including the kinds of financial support.
A few weeks later, whilst conducting some research online, I came across an advert about an event taking place in Central London. Without hesitation, I registered and went along. Similar to a forum or conference, the day consisted of many London-based schools and other institutions linked to the DfE. The aim of the event was to inform and attract as many candidates as possible to pursue a career in teaching in Mathematics.
I spent a few hours talking to a few school’s representatives including teachers, current and past NQTs. Just before I was ready to leave; I turned my head around from where I was standing and noticed a stand at the far end corner with a visible post that read “IMA”. And I thought to myself, 'what is it?' I approached the stand and started chatting to a very charming and helpful mathematician representing this institution.
Consequently, and following her advice, I concluded that I was going to have a go at the application for a scholarship, which I did and eventually turned out to be a wise move. I won’t say necessarily that I decided to apply purely on the basis of the financial backing I was going to receive, but more so from the added reputation of being a maths scholar in the eyes of family and friends, in addition to being offered a chance to become a member of the most prestigious mathematical institutions, which I find is a privilege.
But of course, this is not all, through the Scholarship scheme; I’ve been honoured and very grateful to be invited to great events across the country and to have access to fantastic online teaching resources, some of which I have already used in my training practice during my first school experience. Along the way I have also met incredible people, practitioners and academics, who were truly inspiring.
By Victor Gonzales