Meet the trainee

13th January 2006, 12:00am
Julie, 38, from Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, is a mother of five studying for a BEd honours in primary education at Jordanhill College, Strathclyde University I want to become a teacher because... I worked as an SEN (special educational needs) assistant and I loved the job but wanted to find out more about how children learn and to learn myself.

The biggest inspiration at school was... my primary five teacher. She was really interested in everybody and very approachable.

The most exciting thing that’s happened to me so far is... being on placement. I’m enjoying teaching and am getting a lot out of it. I am really looking forward to my final placement so I can bring together the experiences I have had.

I can’t wait for... my own class and getting to know the children.

But I’m dreading... not having the long holidays I have at university.

I would like my first job to be in... a school with a good community spirit.

I’ll know I’m a teacher when... when I feel I have responsibility for the class on my own.

If I wasn’t going into teaching I’d be... working with children with special needs.

This evening I’m... studying, washing, doing the ironing, sorting the housework, making my children’s tea, and trying to fit everything into a busy life.

If I were education minister I would... ensure every child receives an education that will challenge them and allow them enjoyment in what they do.