Carol Evans

Profile

Biography

I am currently working as an Early Years Teacher, I have worked in Nursery and KS1. My degree is in Mathematics. I have coordinated many subjects, Maths, Computing, History Geography. I am a DSL .  I have worked in a Mentor role for many years. I have been fortunate to work in the School Readiness Team supporting teachers and schools across the Authority. I have provided training and support on a National level.

Why were you interested in the role?

I am fortunate to work as a mentor for my school for many years and have worked alongside trainees from Higher Education settings. I feel the school based training from EHU was excellent. I had already made a strong working relationship with the mentoring team at EHU – the role looked an exciting one to get stuck into.

What inspired you to do the role with Edge Hill University?

As a student here many moons ago, it has been lovely to see how much the University has developed and grown. It has been great to be a part of that development  in a small way with the school based mentoring, therefore it was a no brainer to come back and take on the Lead mentoring role. The mentoring team here at Edge Hill were very professional and extremely supportive – it just felt like the right thing to do.

What are the top 3 skills your role is supporting you to develop?

Training- To deliver lectures, seminars and online support for trainees

Research- Interesting reading new theories and learning- new strategies and ideas

Challenge- The role is taking me out of comfort zone- Encouraging me to think and try new things.

What are you most enjoying about your role, and what are the challenges (if any), and how have you overcome these?

Funnily enough I am enjoying the challenges and developing new skills. The atmosphere at Edge Hill is lovely, working within a supportive team. I am embracing a new role and gaining insight into the world of Higher Education. I am enjoying the opportunity to think out of the box. It is a great to experience a different way of working a balance of office based, people based work. It is a pleasure to give something back t the new generation of trainee teachers.

What’s the best thing about Edge Hill University to you?

Supportive colleagues, a lovely working environment- a healthy work life balance. To be valued and appreciated too

How have/will your role support your career progression?

It has been eye opening to see if the world of Higher Education is the one for me. So it has been wonderful to tip my toe into that field.

What advice would you give to someone considering this role at Edge Hill University?

Just go for it! – You won’t regret it.

How has Edge Hill supported you during your role?

The Education Team have been really supportive, offered many training opportunities., The trainees are well prepared. Resources and facilities have been great.

What does your role bring to student experience? Outline your input with students and the benefits this brings to students.

The Lead Mentor role gives trainees the opportunity to experience the world of the teacher and education- first hand. The teacher experts are relevant and current.

Lead mentors can provide lectures, seminars which are research based and reflect current  practice.

The ITaPs – lead mentors can see through the whole ITaP being University based and School based.