Katie Packman
Assessment Only Route (QTS), 2016-2017
Current role
I am currently Head of English in a middle school teaching years 5-8.
How my course benefited me
I completed my QTS whilst working at Woodland Middle School Academy in Bedfordshire as an unqualified teacher. By working in a school whilst completing my training I felt that I was able to fast track my career and prove myself to be a valued member of the English team. During my NQT year I took on the role of deputy head of English and in NQT+1 the head of English post became available. This on the job training in my school meant I had sufficient experience to be able to succeed in this new role.
Campus life
As a mature student, being able to study close to home is imperative and at no point did I feel studying locally a sacrifice; the facilities at the Âé¶¹´«Ã½AV are excellent.
What I most enjoyed about my degree and studying at the Âé¶¹´«Ã½AV
For me, studying on the job was invaluable and the support from the school and university enabled me to progress quickly as a teacher.
A memorable moment/s
After many years of teaching in colleges, at workshops and in schools unqualified, it was a really memorable moment when I could hold that QTS certificate in my hands. I also made contacts at the university which have enabled me to become a moderator for the local authority, further enhancing my future career prospects.
My top tips for current students
I haven’t got tired of studying yet and started an MA last year. If you are considering a teaching qualification with the Âé¶¹´«Ã½AV, go for it!