Year 6 Junior Citizenship
Our Year 6 pupils had a truly memorable morning at Heatham House, where they took part in the Junior Citizenship programme. The trip gave them the chance to work with a range of local organisations, including the police, fire service, transport officers and community support teams, all of who helped the children think carefully about how to stay safe, make sensible decisions and look after one another as they become more independent.
Through a series of engaging workshops and real-life scenarios, the children explored how to stay safe when travelling, what to do in an emergency, and how to play a positive role in their community. They were praised for their excellent listening skills, their thoughtful questions, and the mature way they approached each challenge.
Stepping into Teaching: Bryn Hunt's teacher training journey begins
Bryn has been at St Stephen's for 9 years as a Teaching Assistant. She is now beginning her teacher training as part of the Teaching London Scheme. She will be based in Year 6 this year.
Bryn, you've been at St Stephen's nine years - what have been some of your highlights of that time?
Every year has been a highlight! Each year, I have been lucky enough to work with some amazingly inspirational teachers and year group teams. Some key highlights are trudging through the mud on the Year 6 residentials at Hooke Court, introducing my very first class to my youngest child after she was born, each time a child comes back to school in Year 7 to tell us the exciting things they are up to, dressing up for World Book Day, and every other day in between.
What first inspired you to pursue teacher training?
I have always enjoyed working with children. My mother was a childminder, and I enjoyed helping her after school. My journey after university led me into a career in Museums, but after having my son, I wanted to explore working with children again. I enjoyed helping my eldest practice her reading, and the idea of working in a school kept coming back. Whilst working at St Stephen's, I have had such a supportive network that really encouraged me to pursue teaching completely.
Was there a particular moment or experience that made you think, 'Yes, I want to be a teacher!'?
There has not been any particular moment that sealed the deal. From the very first year when I was working in Year 4, I felt that I was where I was meant to be. Each day, I am fortunate to witness the moment when a child learns something new or overcomes a learning obstacle, and then the joy it brings them when they succeed.
Can you tell us a bit about the Teaching London scheme and what it involves?
Teaching London is the teacher training provider of the London Diocesan Board for Schools (LDBS). I chose this scheme as it has allowed me to continue working full-time within St Stephen's whilst pursuing my qualification at the same time. I am able to get hands-on practical experience teaching in the classroom and university training as well. At the end of this academic year, I will have completed a Master's level degree, earning my PGCE and QTS. It is full-on training, but worth it!
Are there any particular subjects or areas of the curriculum that you're especially passionate about?
The children I have had the pleasure of working with, know that I love Maths. I enjoy being able to ensure Maths is accessible and reaches everyone. Maths is the one language in the world that everyone can speak.