About our Trainees

“This trainee has worked across the phases to run an art club after school. She has set up an exhibition of the children's work by setting up the hall as a gallery and inviting the children's parents to come in to celebrate the work. She also entered the children's art into a national competition after getting consent from parents. She also works with a group of our SEND children to complete art projects and develop their confidence and improve speaking and listening. She has also joined a group at the local parish church to work on projects, decorating the church for the liturgical year.” Nominated by Emma Davies, St John Fisher Coventry, The winner of the Primary Sue Rossi Award is Kealy O’Connor

“I would like to wholeheartedly nominate this trainee in recognition of his exceptional commitment, reliability, and unwavering support to our school community. Every opportunity to support school life outside of the classroom, he embraces with enthusiasm and professionalism. Whether it is the school show, presentation evenings, school fairs, or supporting trips, He is always one of the first to volunteer his time and energy. His willingness to be present and contribute makes an enormous difference to both staff and students. Nominated by Richard Smith, Woodfield Academy, The winner of the Secondary Sue Rossi Award is Ashley Thompson

This trainee has brought such genuine passion to her teaching role this year. She consistently goes above and beyond and really cares about doing the very best for both the school and the children she works with. We have loved seeing how much her confidence has grown since she joined us in September—it’s been a real pleasure to watch her develop. She has become such an important part of our team, and we truly see her as a valued member of staff rather than a student.” Nominated by Claire McNickle-Edwards, Cottesbrooke Infant and Nursery School, The Primary Julie Robinson award goes to Uzma Malik

“She has been one of the most outstanding trainees I've ever worked with (and I've been a PM for 12 years). Her passion and commitment to inspire pupils, surpass outcomes and build relationships is exceptional and we are very excited for her to join us as a staff member next year. Her professionalism and efforts are noted by multiple staff members, and she is a positive light when she enters a room. She is going to be an incredible teacher, tutor and colleague.” Nomianted by Laura Harris, St Augustine's Catholic High School The Secondary Julie Robinson award goes to Amy Wood

“I have nominated this trainee for her outstanding commitment to teaching pupils with SEND. We are a special needs setting and she has worked very hard to support and adapt her teaching practices to support each individual student within the class. This has involved using tailored communication strategies, adaptive teaching and knowledge of her learners. Her impact has been seen in the noticeable progress the learners have made over the time she has been with them” ---Anna Bridges, Cherry Oak Nominated by Anna Bridges from Cherry Oak, the winner for Primary SEND is Molly Foggan

“This trainee has forged really great relationships with a class that has a high percentage of SEND students. Due to this, many students in the class have grown in confidence of their own abilities and are more willing to offer answers, ask questions, etc.” Nominated by Bobby Capper, Bishop Challoner, And the winner for Secondary SEND is Nahila Shezadi

Meet our trainees and hear their thoughts and experience about their training journey 

Full-time trainees

Maryam Akbari, trainee teacher 2025-26

Teaching is a privilege. Yes, it is challenging, but it must be rooted in purpose, a reason that goes beyond the classroom. My reason is simple: without teachers, no one would become anything. There would be no doctors, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, whatever path a person may choose. Teachers are the foundation of every profession and through education we help turn students’ hopes and dreams into reality.

To stand in front of young people and be trusted with the growth and development of another human being is an honour. Teaching is not just a career; it is a responsibility that shapes lives.

For me, teaching is a badge of honour. It is a role rooted in care and patience. I am deeply grateful to be part of such a meaningful and heart-warming profession.

My understanding of teaching is shaped by the example of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa salaam) and Imam Jaʿfar aṣ-Ṣādiq (alayhi as-salām), whose lives showed the importance of knowledge, ethical guidance, compassion and teaching others with wisdom. These are values I try to embody into my own practice as an educator.

Uzma Malik, trainee teacher 2025-26

Being a mum of two and currently doing my teacher training has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Balancing family life with studying and school placements can be challenging at times, but it is also incredibly fulfilling. Every day I learn something new, not just about teaching but about myself too. I can feel my confidence growing, and I am discovering strengths I didn’t even know I had. It means so much to me to show my children that with determination and belief in yourself, you really can achieve your goals.

What makes this journey even more special is seeing how it is helping me at home as well. The techniques and strategies I’m learning are supporting my own children’s learning, and my son has already moved up two levels in phonics, which makes me so proud. I love knowing that I’m not only developing professionally but also setting an example for my children by showing them that it’s never too late to learn something new or follow a dream. With organisation, planning and the right support, it genuinely is possible to balance parenthood with teacher training.

  My Tips for Parents Doing Teacher Training

• Stay organised by planning, keeping a diary and preparing meals in advance.
• Talk to family and friends and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
• Check your children’s school for after-school clubs and look into local childminders, as different options work for different families.
• Your partner can support you by speaking to their workplace, as even small adjustments to their hours can help with childcare or the school run.
• Make the most of the support available from your training provider and placement school.
• Remember that it’s completely okay to ask for help, because no one can juggle everything alone.
• Keep your “why” in mind, because you are setting an example for your children every single day.

If it’s something you’ve dreamed of, go for it. Plan, prepare and believe in yourself. You’ll surprise yourself with how much you can achieve.

Part-time trainees

Kyler Bennett, trainee teacher 2024-26

Why I chose the part-time course?

I chose the part-time route because, as a mum of two, I needed a way to follow my aspirations of becoming a teacher without losing the time I have with my children. They’re still at an age where they need me, and I didn’t want to miss important moments with them. The part-time option gave me a balance—enough time to train properly, but also enough time to still be “Mum.” It felt like the best route that allowed me to grow professionally while keeping my family at the centre of everything.

What advantages been of part-time route?

My biggest advantage has been the ability to do a job I genuinely love while still having valuable time with my children. I never felt like I had to choose between the two. The part-time structure gave me the space to enjoy teaching, plan carefully, and develop my practice without feeling like I was missing out on my children’s lives.

It also helped me progress toward QTS in a steady and realistic way, that worked best for me. I had time to reflect on feedback, improve my lessons, and grow in confidence. I have been able build my practice gradually, get to know the children I taught, and meet the Teachers’ Standards in a calm and consistent way.

 My main advice would be:

• Don’t be afraid to choose the route that fits your life. For parents, the part-time option can make training possible without sacrificing family time.
• Stay organised and plan ahead. With children, unexpected things happen, so having structure really helps.
• Communicate early and openly with mentors and placement schools about your circumstances and any extra support you may need. 
• Use the extra time wisely. The breathing space is a huge benefit—use it for planning, reflection, and managing workload. 
• Keep in mind that this is about your progression, and is not a race. Yes, the part time route takes more time, but you will still reach the same end goal - and you’ll do it in a way that works best for you. 

Early Career Teachers (ECTs)

From Student to ECT with Bishop Challoner Training School!