Gemma’s on track for teaching success

Working full-time was no barrier to success for Chorley-born Gemma Heyes and she's now on track to succeed in her chosen career, thanks to Edge Hill University.

"I've always found science to be an interesting subject," explained 24-year-old Gemma, who has just graduated with a first class honours in Key Stage 2/3 Education with Science. "But because I went straight into employment after school I didn't have the necessary qualifications to do a degree in the subject. Rather than having to go and study A-levels for two years, Edge Hill Fast Track route meant I could gain A-level equivalences within a year and then progress on to my degree straight away.

"This was ideal for me as it enabled me to study for my degree a year earlier than expected and gave me an excellent mix of scientific experiences."

The Fast Track Teaching Programme is a government initiative designed to help those with excellent leadership potential progress rapidly in their teaching careers. It is part of the government's commitment to recruit and retain the best teachers and seeks to raise the standards of leadership in schools, as well as enhance the performance of schools and the achievement of pupils.

Candidates accepted on the programme complete a Professional Graduate Certificate in Education at Edge Hill, leading to Qualified Teacher Status. They also undertake additional professional development, which could involve additional school placements or special projects. Ultimately, Fast Track teachers will be expected to progress into leadership positions - either in school management or as an Advanced Skills Teacher.

Gemma says it was not just the course, but the way it was structured, that was a big factor in her success. "The Fast Track course spanned a year and the majority of it was in the evenings, which meant I could continue to work full-time. The way the course was designed eased participants into uni life gradually and I only had to give up work in June 2008 before I started full-time at uni. Edge Hill recognised that for people like me who worked full-time this may cause financial difficulties, and so subsidised our travel costs, which was a huge help."

After graduating with first class honours, Gemma is now looking to find a teaching position and ultimately has plans to help others looking to go into this profession. "I would like to teach for four or five years and then look at becoming an Advanced Skills Teacher. I really enjoy teaching students but I also feel I would like to develop my own and others' practice. I have a particular interest in Additional Educational Needs and so would like to pursue this at a later date, including completing a master's degree focusing on this area," Gemma added.

To find out more about Edge Hill's Fast Track programme, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk.