Working at Thomas Deacon
Medhi – Teacher of Science
Medhi walked into the Academy Reception in December 2008 and asked to speak to someone in HR. He told us that he had a background working in Forensic Science, but that he had recently left his job to get experience in order to apply for teacher training. Medhi offered to work at the Academy as a volunteer in the Science College.
From January to July 2009, Medhi worked in the Science College as a Volunteer Teaching Assistant, working with the students and teachers in the department, supporting staff and getting to observe lessons. Alongside this, Medhi applied for the Graduate Teacher Programme with the Cambridge Partnership and applied to Thomas Deacon Academy for sponsorship on the programme. Medhi worked hard to secure both his training place and sponsorship, and in September 2009, he joined the Graduate Teacher Programme. Medhi spent his first term (September to December) at Arthur Mellows Village College, and from January 2010 to July 2010, he was on placement at Thomas Deacon Academy.
In July 2010, Medhi successfully applied for a teaching post at Thomas Deacon Academy, and is now teaching Science and Health & Social Care.
Medhi’s experience of life at Thomas Deacon Academy:
“Teaching was something I’d had an interest in for a while, but I had limited experience. I decided to apply to do some voluntary work at TDA within the Science department so that I could get first-hand experience in order to evaluate if this was truly for me. The staff at TDA were very friendly and hugely supportive. Upon completing my work experience I decided that this was something I had a keen interest in and would enjoy as a career.
“I went on to take the Graduate Training Programme with The Cambridge Partnership, which turned out to be a very challenging but thoroughly enjoyable year. During the teacher training I went through a trial and error process. Along the journey I acquired many strategies that have helped me deal with behaviour and enabled me to provide lessons in which children can learn effectively in a safe environment, where value is added to their education. This was very much enhanced by the help I received from my mentors, who have been very supportive and inspirational, and without whom I think I would be at a great loss (so a big thank you to all those that supported me).
“This job is different from most, but the reward is great. I would recommend teaching to anyone who has an interest in the education of our future generations.“