Ben Lock - Geography trainee

Year of study

2018/19

Tell us about your route into teaching...

I worked in the field of International Development, specifically FairTrade, for 12 years before taking a job in the charitable sector managing a food waste/food poverty charity.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I have been lucky to have worked in some really interesting and rewarding roles in recent years which I hope have made a positive difference to peoples’ lives. I wanted a new career which continued to fulfil that criteria, and having seen my own children develop and deliver their potential through the excellent teaching that they continue to receive, it inspired me to start this journey.

Why did you choose Shotton Hall SCITT?

I wanted to ensure that I was part of a professional centre of excellence. The feedback I received from people within the teaching profession about Shotton Hall SCITT was very positive. The supporting evidence was also persuasive and comprehensive.

What would you say to anyone else thinking of becoming a teacher?

It’s never too late in your career to make the change! Investigate your options - it might just be for you.

What has been your favourite part of training so far?

It has been brilliant to re-engage with my subject as well as starting to really investigate and understand what it takes to be a great teacher. But the best part has been settling in so quickly and so well with a fantastic group of fellow trainee teachers.

How does teacher training differ from your previous career?

Learning opportunities were relatively scarce in my previous career. I love learning, and I am sure that there will be limitless opportunities to continue to learn both during training and throughout my teaching career.