Joanne McQuillan is a teacher at Cambridge House Grammar School in Ballymena. She enjoys travelling, swimming, reading and going to the cinema.
What is your job?
Teacher of Mathematics to A-Level at Cambridge House Grammar School
How did you get there?
After my A-levels I studied at QUB and took a year out in France which I spent working as an English assistant in a school. I decided I wanted to teach so I studied for a post graduate certificate in education (PGCE).
Do you have a typical working day?
I arrive in school at 8.30am and then follow the daily timetable until 3.20pm. After a day of teaching it’s then lesson preparation and/or marking.
What qualifications do you have?
I have A-Levels in French, Geography, Mathematics and Physics, BSc Combined Mathematics and French, PGCE Mathematics and I’m currently in the final year of part-time study for MSc Collaborative Leadership.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Making a difference to futures of the young people I teach at Cambridge House.
And the worst?
Taking work home and inflexible holidays!
What other skills do you need in your role?
Patience, determination, teamwork and communication skills, initiative and the ability to work well under pressure.
What do you think are the greatest challenges/pressures of the job?
Achieving results whilst ensuring positive learning experiences are delivered.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in your profession?
It’s not just 9 to 3 and lots of holidays as people seem to think – be prepared to work hard!
What did you want to be when you were at school?
Air Hostess
What’s the most common question people ask when they find out what you do?
Do you ever get bored having so many holidays?
How do you like to relax outside work?
Travelling, swimming, reading and cinema.
What is the best advice you ever received?
To do what you enjoy.
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