A teaching career can grow in many directions.
EYFS Lead Kelly McLean reflects on 11 years at Edna G. Olds Academy, the variety of her role and the support that has helped her develop as a leader.
I’ve been teaching at Edna G. Olds Academy for 11 years and, during that time, I’ve worked across every key stage. That’s given me a strong understanding of how children learn and progress throughout their primary education.
My role has evolved over the years. Alongside leading the EYFS, I lead Science and Computing and am one of the academy’s Designated Safeguarding Leads. I also coach and mentor staff at different stages of their careers. I enjoy the variety of it all. No two days are the same!
I was coming to the end of my year as a Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT) in a different academy trust when I applied to Edna G. Olds Academy. A couple of colleagues I had trained with were already working within L.E.A.D., so I asked them what it was like. Everything I heard was positive, which gave me the confidence to apply.
During the interview, I got a real feel for the academy. The children were enthusiastic, and the conversations I had with staff reflected my own values about teaching and learning. There was a warmth and energy in the building that stood out to me. I left feeling I could see myself working here, and here I am 11 years later!
A typical day in my role can be quite varied. This year, I’ve moved further into leadership and now provide planning, preparation and assessment (PPA) cover rather than having my own class. I might be teaching in the EYFS or working with Year 4, where I teach most of their science curriculum. I love how hands-on and exploratory those lessons can be.
Alongside teaching, I spend time coaching and mentoring staff. That might mean modelling practice, supporting planning or having reflective conversations about wellbeing, teaching and learning. I also talk with children about their learning and gather their views on the subjects I lead, using what they tell me to inform my work.
What I enjoy most about my role is the daily interaction with the children. Working across two different key stages is rewarding because teaching and learning can look so different from one day to the next. I love that variety.
In the EYFS, you can see the impact of teaching so clearly. I love seeing the children’s excitement as they explore the invitations to learning in the classroom or begin to read and write their first words. Watching their confidence and independence grow makes me proud to be part of their journey.
Working within L.E.A.D. Academy Trust has given me access to a wide range of professional development opportunities. Over the years, I’ve built experience in safeguarding, coaching and computing, which has strengthened my leadership skills.
I’ve completed a Level 6 qualification in coaching and attended training in computing, science, oracy and the EYFS. I’m also currently completing the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL), which is developing my skills in strategic leadership and my understanding of whole-academy improvement.
The support I’ve received from our Headteacher has been invaluable, too. I’ve always felt encouraged to develop and take on new challenges, and the culture at Edna G. Olds Academy has helped me do that with confidence.
If you’re thinking about applying for a role within L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, I’d say go for it. My experience has been incredibly positive. I’ve found the leadership supportive, and there have been so many opportunities to develop my skills, take on new challenges and work with amazing colleagues.
