Matthew Edwards
Things seem to be working out well for Matt Edwards. At this early stage in his teaching career, he’s right where he wants to be. His four-year course at UWE has helped him secure a job he loves, and given him the chance to stay in Bristol.
The BA (Hons) Initial Teacher Education degree course Matt chose proved to be a good starting point. "I made some great friends and, because the course ran over four years, I got to enjoy an extra year of being a student!," he says.
On a more serious note, the course, and the city of Bristol was a real eye-opener for Matt. "Coming from a relatively small town, I immediately enjoyed the buzz of Bristol - there's just so much going on. And from a professional point of view, I managed to gain experience of working in schools with real diversity."
From the back of the class to the front
When it came to applying for jobs, Matt decided he'd like to stay in Bristol. And his UWE work experience had given him a clear idea of the type of environment he wanted to work in.
"I knew I wanted to work in a high-achieving school where I could really stretch the children's abilities. I was also looking for a creative environment," he says.
Matt was lucky enough to find both. Graduating in 2007, he went straight into his current job, teaching year six at a 'fantastic' primary school in the Hotwells area of Bristol.
Making his mark
Matt knew he was following in the footsteps of a very well-respected teacher, and would be dealing with parents with high expectations. But this didn't faze him for a minute. Shortly after arriving, he made his mark with a production of 'Oliver', and his enthusiasm for the project was positively contagious.
"It was amazing," he says, "the children were a really talented bunch to work with and the parents were 100% behind it - helping with costumes and scenery. We now have to stage an even better production this year. But that's okay, I've already got a few ideas in the pipeline."
So, any regrets?
Looking back, Matthew concedes there may have been a few missed opportunities. Although his attendance at UWE was good overall, he did miss the odd seminar here and there. "Typical, isn't it? On the rare occasion I wasn't able to go in, I always missed something really interesting. One time, a Head Teacher came in to talk to us about applying for jobs. And I really wish I'd made the Sex Education lectures - particularly as I now have to teach it to my class of 11 year olds in the summer!"
And his advice to others?
Considering how well things have turned out for Matt his advice comes as no surprise. "If you're considering the teaching degree," he says, "the course is demanding, but stick at it - it's worth it in the end."
Page last updated 1 November 2011