My time at College helped shape both my career ambitions and my approach to learning. I particularly enjoyed studying Economics and found the content relevant to real-world issues, from understanding the national economy to practical topics such as interest rates and how to research my own mortgage, when the time came. The independence and autonomy that came with studying at College prepared me well for the world of work, while my A Level results opened doors to further study and a career in education.
After College, I took a gap year to travel before working as a Teaching Assistant. I then enrolled on a Business course at the University of Southampton but soon realised it was not the right path for me. Leaving the course proved to be an important turning point, as it led me to a role as an unqualified teacher of English within a pupil referral unit, supporting students experiencing emotionally based school avoidance. Although this position was initially temporary, it was extended for a full academic year and fostered my interest in education.
Knowing that a degree would be essential for career progression, I explored different opportunities and secured a Degree Apprenticeship in Consulting while working for Accenture, which was quite a pivot away form education. In reality, I struggled to adapt to corporate life and really missed being in the classroom. So, I made the decision to leave Accenture and worked briefly as a Tuition Centre Director, where I developed my leadership and management skills. This then facilitated my return to a school setting as Head of Pastoral, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Careers Leader.
Alongside working full time, I completed a foundation degree in teaching, which enabled me to progress to a BA (Hons) Education top-up degree. I now work as a Pastoral Manager, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Teacher at Newhaven, leading on pastoral care and safeguarding within NEST – specialist mental health provision that supports students whose psychological difficulties affect their ability to attend mainstream education.
Working in Special Educational Needs and Social, Emotional & Mental Health education as well as safeguarding can be challenging. Young people often face complex circumstances that need to be explored, and they may display behaviours that can be difficult to manage. Despite these challenges, I find the work incredibly rewarding. I am particularly proud of progressing into leadership roles and the positive impact I have made so far.
Now that I’ve completed my BA (Hons) Education Top-Up degree, my next goal is to complete gain Qualified Teacher Status through the Assessment Only route and continue progressing towards a further senior leadership post as an Assistant Headteacher.
Careers are not always linear – mine has certainly had some twists and turns – and I think it’s important to be able to embrace unexpected opportunities and changes in direction. We spend a large part of our lives at work, so finding something meaningful and fulfilling is important.
If you are interested in teaching, gain experience in a range of educational settings to understand the different types of schools and environments available. You will need a degree to gain Qualified Teacher Status, but there are also many rewarding roles within pastoral care, safeguarding and learning support. Whatever route you choose, be mindful of maintaining a healthy balance between workload and wellbeing.
Lloyd Folks
Reigate College: 2020-2022
Higher Education: Level 5 Diploma in Teaching, 5 Star Courses then BA (Hons) Education top-up, University of Greenwich
Currently: Pastoral Manager, Designated Safeguarding Lead and Teacher, Newhaven and working towards Qualified Teacher Status
