Uni's first teacher apprentice ‘to shine’

The first apprentice teacher to qualify from Sunderland University says a “very challenging year” has made her even more passionate about her job.

Sarah Chambers, 28, completed her course last month and has begun the next phase of her career as a biology teacher.

Sarah, who studied an apprenticeship in PGCE SecondaryScience (Biology), said:

“During this unprecedented time, it has been a challenge butonewhichIhaverelished, and I am so thankful for the support I’ve received from myschoolandtheUniversity.

“The biggest challenge was to engage students with online learning, but the Covid pandemic has made me morepassionateaboutteaching because it has highlighted that education is not just about academic grades and teachingintheclassroom,it’s about developing young people into future leaders.

“After a few years of being an unqualified teacher, it is now my time to shine and make my family proud.”

Susan Edgar, head of the school of education at the university,added:“Wewould liketocongratulateSarahfor beingourveryfirsttrainee to qualify through the PGCE Teacher Apprentice Programme.Thisisan excellent achievement.

“Ourthanksmust also go to her employer Unity City Academy for their excellentworkinsupporting Sarahinpartnershipwiththe University of Sunderland.

“Praisemustalsogotoour excellent Programme Leaders Allison Wilson, Emma Cullen and Sarah Reed here at the University, who have worked so hard to support thetraineesandsuccessfully establishedthisuniqueroute into teaching.”