Q&A with Emma Costard

What is it like to study teacher training at IOE?

Studying teacher training at IOE means you can explore many different approaches and styles of teaching to find what fits you best. There is no set way to teach and the tutors will encourage you to become your own teacher and develop your style of teaching to make you the best you can be.

What did you enjoy most about your training year?

Debates in Education was fantastic. It is unique to IOE in that teachers and colleagues within the profession come to talk and debate contrasting views on current issues in Education. These are lively, interesting and engaging sessions which make you feel part of something bigger than the PGCE itself.

What is it like to train in a London school?

Training in a London school has given me the invaluable experience of working with all different kinds of students and teachers. In London schools you are exposed to different communities, cultures, and styles of learning which give you an incredibly sound foundation for wherever you go next.

What advice would you give to new students on the PGCE?

To new students joining the programme I would say get stuck in and hit the ground running. The PGCE is fast-paced, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. Don’t lose sight of why you are doing it when it gets tough but reflect on those moments, it is the quickest way to learn.

More than anything, I would say enjoy it – it is fantastic to be surrounded by people who have the same goal as you and come from all over the world. You will definitely come out stronger and learn so much in such a short space of time.

More information about the Languages PGCE

More about teacher training at IOE 

Insight into the Languages PGCE teacher training programme from trainee teacher Lisa

"Culture is a really important thing in the classroom."

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