Meet Claire, a Teach First trainee primary school teacher
From working in social housing to exploring that “what if”. Claire couldn’t ignore the pull she had always felt toward teaching.
From social housing to the classroom
After university, I began a career in Social Housing, where I spent nearly ten years and became a Strategy Officer. Having grown up in Social Housing, I found the work very deeply rewarding.
Still, I couldn’t ignore that teaching has always been a career I’ve felt drawn to even as a child. That desire never left me.
Now I teach at Lansdowne Primary Academy which is within the school trust I attended when I was a child.
Because I grew up in the local area, I understand the challenges and opportunities our children face, helping me to genuinely relate to pupils and make a meaningful difference.
While I’m mindful of the statistics surrounding them, I choose to see each child for who they are and who they have the potential to become.
For me, it’s the little moments that make teaching so special—the child who stops to say hello on break duty, the shared laughter in the classroom, or the way their faces light up when they see you.
Those everyday interactions that truly remind me just how influential and impactful this role can be.
I’ve also appreciated the sense of community outside the classroom with other Teach First trainees. It’s been great for sharing worries or just swapping tips, like which shoes to buy.
Like Claire, you can join our Training Programme and help inspire the next generation.