Making the transition into teaching;
Liam Willetts-Fegan
What did you do before becoming a teacher?
I worked as a financial planning and analysis manager.
Which skills from your previous career will be useful in the classroom?
I'm able to break down and explain complicated subjects into sections that are easy to understand and I've learned how best to display information so that it can be understood and absorbed. I'm confident speaking in front of large groups of people and I can understand other people's perspective, adapting the resources and explanations I'm using if they are not being understood. I'm also experienced in managing my time effectively, working to tight deadlines and prioritising my workload. I can think on my feet and answer unexpected questions - I'm not afraid to say if I don't know the answer, but I'll find it out and get back to you!
What inspired you to get into teaching?
I became bored with office life and I wanted a career where no two days would be the same. Over the years I have had to do some training at work and I found that I enjoyed passing on information and the feeling I got when someone understood what I was teaching them. I've also been involved in scouting since I was very young and I enjoy spending time with young people, watching them grow and mature into adults.
How has Transition to Teach supported you so far?
Very well! Transition to Teach have provided useful and insightful training courses, advised me on applying for funding, and worked as a sounding board to give me advice and feedback when requested. They conduct regular check-ins to make sure that I'm not having any issues and they provide suggestions on how I can handle stress to make sure that I'm prioritising my own health throughout my training.
As you move into teaching, what are you most excited about?
I'm most excited to spend time in the classroom, getting to know students and learning how best to teach them the subject I've always been passionate about.
Where do you see yourself in five years' time?
I see myself taking on some additional teaching and learning duties, but mainly just being a teacher in the classroom, practicing my craft and becoming the best teacher I can be.