Stuart, a History trainee at Sheffield Park Academy, decided to train to teach after a career in the heritage sector. He tells us why he decided to do it and what he's enjoying most:

What were you doing before you started teacher training?

I came to teaching late – I’m 52 in fact – after a career mainly in museums. I also worked in travel for a while.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

My career wasn’t going in the direction I hoped. I wanted to re-focus to where I knew that if I could be successful, I’d be part of something worthwhile.

How did your first term as a trainee go? 

Loved it. Yes, it was a challenge, because there’s lots to take in. But  if you’re thinking about teaching, you’ve already got 80% of what you need. ‘Believe in yourself’ is what I tell the children – it’s no different for me. Highlights – gradually building relationships with the children – especially the hard-to-reach ones who might have problems in the background.

What are you looking forward to for the rest of the year and beyond?

Throwing off the 'L' plates – and making this my future.

What would you say to someone thinking about applying for United Teaching?

I hope my own experience speaks for itself: when I reached out to different  training providers, it was United Teaching that reached back with real enthusiasm. Within two weeks I’d got a school and they were backing me. This support has never wavered. It gives me the platform to try and do my best. I hope that helps you decide for yourself. 

Are you inspired by Stuart's story?