Rebecca Kelman, NQT science teacher
Portland School, Worksop
Why did you get involved in teaching?
I got involved in teaching because I have always known I wanted to work with people, I did various jobs working in pupil referral units, I worked for social services and in hospitals.
So I knew I wanted to work with people but working in a pupil referral unit with really disadvantaged young kids that made me really want to be a teacher.
For me it's about realising you can make a difference and knowing you have such a massive impact on the lives of young people. It is a real privilege.
Why did you join the NASUWT?
I joined because the majority of teachers in my school were in the NASUWT. But since then, particularly now we have a Coalition Government I have come to understand a bit more about the union.
Listening to Chris Keates this morning I was really struck by how her views are the same as mine. It is good to know my views are being articulated by the Union and expressed to Michael Gove.
There are so many benefits but having a voice as well is great.
What is your favourite part about teaching?
My favourite part is definitely the relationship you build up with the pupils, you really notice that. When you are on the PGCE you get a couple of months and then you move on but being able to have a sustained relationship with some of these pupils is so rewarding.
When they start to realise that you are there in their best interests it is something really rewarding that you get. It makes you smile when you help them to realise or understand something for the first time. When it just clicks for them it is so satisfying.
What challenges have you faced in your first year of teaching?
There are so many challenges in your first year of teaching. You are in a new building with new staff and new children. There is so much to take on and it is a huge workload.
The overwhelming part is everything being new all at the same time.
There are problems with behaviour and learning how to deal with it in a consistent way. I have been really lucky in my school and have a very supportive department which has made it a lot easier but there are a lot of challenges.
