Q&A with Na Blackall

Na was a student on the Early Years Initial Teacher Training (EYITT Employment Based Route) programme. She talks about how her time at IOE has benefitted her professional career and practice.

Na Blackall. Image permission: Na Blackall.

How are you finding the programme?

I really enjoyed the EYITT course. Throughout this year, I have gained knowledge and skills in planning and teaching referring to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

The EYITT course provides excellent opportunities to improve my knowledge and skills from supportive and knowledgeable tutors. The placement allowed me to focus on children with different age groups, and according to their development stages and learning characteristics, I plan and lead activities to support their learning and development.

The most valuable thing about this course is that it taught me that reflective practice is crucial for early years teachers. The weekly Personal Development Plan (PDP) helped me understand my strengths and the areas I needed to focus on in further learning.

“After a year of study, I am now confident to plan fun and stimulating activities to support early years children’s learning and development.

Why did you choose UCL?

UCL is a top university in the world, and IOE has been awarded No.1 in Education for the past eleven years. My colleagues used to study at UCL and recommended I apply for the PGCE course because of the helpful tutors and fantastic learning atmosphere.

I currently work in Reception class as a teaching assistant in a primary school. The EYITT course helped me become an early years teacher. Before my Teacher Training programme, I was preparing and taking GCSE exams in English, Math and Science.

Were there any challenges and how have you overcome them?

As an employment-based student, I have to spend most weekends and the time after work doing my coursework. However, my job offered me lots of opportunities to implement what I have learned in the course and improve my practice with my daily work.

How did you find your study modules?

They are useful. The Teaching and Learning and the EYFS Curriculum module improved my academic writing and critical thinking skills.

The Professional Practice module provides opportunities to reflect on my practice and understand my strengths and the areas I need to focus on to improve.

The Developing Action Based Research (ABR) module allowed me to lead and represent a teaching project to promote my leadership skills in my future work.

“I have gained the knowledge, skills, and confidence to step into a teaching role.

What impact do you think your time at the IOE will have on your future career – and where do you see yourself in five years’ time?

As I mentioned, the EYITT course helped me become a qualified early years teacher, and this qualification will benefit my future career by enabling me to step into leadership in early years settings, such as a room leader, third in charge, deputy manager, or manager.

If you could give advice to someone about to start teacher training, what would it be?

Prepare to manage your busy year and hard work. You will find the course busy but enjoyable.

Can you sum up your time at IOE in 3 words?

Hard-working, enjoyable and achievement.