18: The Importance of Identity and What I Wish I Knew Before my PGCE

A popular interview question that I recall being asked was ‘what can you bring to the teaching profession?’ On reflection it is difficult to articulate an answer without having the depth of knowledge the post graduate certificate in education (PGCE) provides students with. When answering this question during the interview process, I felt that my response was intrinsically connected with my former experiences of education and my personal identity.

Can you recall being asked this question during your interview process? Reflecting on your response, how have your experiences of education and your personal identity shaped your answer?

The nature of being a trainee teacher means that students are under intense scrutiny, this scrutiny takes shape in a number of ways: your outer appearance, your personal life and your practice and pedagogy. These things make up a practitioner’s identity, and when challenged, can feel like an attack on character.