Sarah McDonald

Profile

Biography

Having trained at Liverpool Hope, I gained my B.Ed Hons degree with English as a degree specialism. I have worked in primary education for the past 26 years. I have gained a wealth of experience across the primary phase and have taught across different phases (KS1-Year 6). I am currently working full time as a Year 6 class teacher and have done so for the past 10 years. I have had many roles at the school throughout the years, gaining valuable experience in all. I have I have had experience of leadership and was acting Deputy Head teacher at Trinity C of E/Methodist Primary School, Skelmersdale. I am responsible for leading English across the school and I am phase leader for KS2. I am also a part of the senior leadership team, assisting the head teacher and deputy in driving initiatives and assisting in the day-to-day running a busy, thriving school .

Why were you interested in the role?

Mentoring is something I really enjoy and I feel  that I have the patience, understanding  and experience to help support trainees in their training and development. The role of Lead Mentor, allows me to work alongside trainees and be directly involved in their training, imparting my knowledge and skills over the years,  as well as having the privilege of working alongside  university tutors.

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

Our school has supported Edge Hill trainees for many years, and I feel that the Edge Hill ITE curriculum supports trainees, offering a robust system of mentoring to ensure trainees are supported and guided well. I felt that my role as Lead Mentor would strengthen and support the link between the University and school.  I have really enjoyed the opportunity to develop good working relationships with colleagues at Edge Hill Last year and  wanted to continue to learn and be guided by their skills and knowledge into ITT.

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

It is a great opportunity for trainees to talk to and engage with professional teachers with current experience within the classroom and in schools. Lead Mentors provide trainees with research-based lectures, seminars, video clips based on real, current practice in the classroom.

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

This year I have been able to use my skills and vast experience to provide training to trainees. I have recorded lectures and Questions and Answer sessions for seminars and filmed  videos of me teaching, explaining my practice. I have really enjoyed doing this and it has allowed my to link my classroom practice to current research and thinking. It has also developed my confidence.

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

I really enjoy coming to Edge Hill with its amazing setting and meeting and working with new people in a supportive team.  I enjoy the different working atmosphere that this role provides and  the change of pace it gives is very welcome and  is very  different to school! I love the new skill set it is giving me and the insight into the world of Higher Education (something that I have always wanted to work in)  I love that I feel I can impart my experiences and knowledge and am  giving the trainees a valuable and honest insight into the world of teaching!

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

The staff have always been incredibly supportive and helpful.

How have/will your role support your career progression?

I have always wanted to experience and work in Higher Education in some way. This role has provided me with the opportunity to do this, working with trainees in various ways and I hope as the role develops I can expand this opportunity and continue to explore ways I can offer my expertise and experiences. I would love the opportunity to work with trainees, utilising my subject specialism in some way.

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

Go for it !  It’s a great opportunity to expand your knowledge and experience, and it will really benefit your school as well.

How has Edge Hill supported you during your role?

Meeting Ged last year was a breath of fresh air, and she was incredibly supportive and I felt I was valued and appreciated. Thank you.