Meet our Trainees

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.

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. 

From Student to ECT with Bishop Challoner Training School!