Katie Packman

Assessment Only Route (QTS), 2016-2017

Current role

I am currently Head of English in a middle school teachingKatie Packman 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!