The first year of teaching is full of new experiences, discoveries and opportunities to grow.
Reception Teacher Eve Appleby shares her route into education, what she enjoys about working with young children and how she has been supported at Edna G. Olds Academy.
I’ve always known that I wanted to work with and support children. I began volunteering in schools when I was 16, which confirmed my interest in education.
In 2020, I moved from Newcastle to study Early Childhood Studies at the University of Derby. After completing my degree, I went on to study for a PGCE in Primary Education for ages 3–7, with a specialism in Physical Education. I then moved to Nottingham to begin my teaching career and successfully applied for the Reception Teacher role at Edna G. Olds Academy.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my first year in the profession and am delighted to be staying at the academy as I move into my second year as an Early Career Teacher (ECT).
I was drawn to L.E.A.D. Academy Trust by its values of Lead, Empower, Achieve and Drive. They align closely with my commitment to helping every child reach their full potential. The high expectations, collaborative culture and focus on developing both pupils and staff also made it somewhere I wanted to work.
A typical day in Reception is busy, rewarding and full of learning! We begin by welcoming the children and helping them settle in. Through a mix of adult-led lessons and child-initiated play, they develop their reading, writing, maths, communication and social skills.
Throughout the day, we observe and support children’s learning, both indoors and outdoors. We build on what interests them and help them grow in confidence and independence.
What I enjoy most about teaching Reception is getting to know each child as an individual. Learning about their personalities, interests and strengths helps me support their development and make learning meaningful for them.
It’s rewarding to watch their confidence grow throughout the year and see the progress they make, both academically and personally. Looking back at how far they’ve come by the end of Reception is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role.
Working within L.E.A.D. Academy Trust has given me access to training, networking opportunities and the chance to learn from experienced colleagues across its academies. These opportunities have helped me build my confidence and develop my teaching practice.
I’ve also benefited from the support of colleagues at Edna G. Olds Academy, who are always willing to share ideas and offer guidance. During my first year of teaching, I’ve had the space to reflect on what I do in the classroom and keep improving it for the children I teach.
If you’re thinking about applying for a role within L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, I’d encourage you to do it. Starting my teaching career at Edna G. Olds Academy has been a positive experience. I’ve felt welcomed and supported through my first year, with training and opportunities to learn from colleagues at my academy and across the Trust. That support has given me the confidence to keep developing as a teacher.
