Natalie Clark studied her CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Education course in 2011 for 2 years, she is now exactly where she wants to be after her hard work and determination.
It’s great to hear her journey from Chesterfield College into full-time employment and how her experiences have allowed her to be where she is today.
Natalie’s Story
“After leaving college I managed to secure a job in one of the placement nurseries as a nursery nurse part-time. And not long after I got another job in a pre-school and did both of the jobs alongside each other. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher and so after about 3-4 years, I decided to apply for University.
In 2016 I was offered a place on the BA Hons Childhood Studies degree (2016-2019) 3yr course at Sheffield Hallam University. Again, after successfully completing my course, I was offered a job as a Teaching Assistant at one of my placement schools. This gave me vital experience when I decided to apply for teacher training later that academic year.
In September 2020 I secured my place to train to be a teacher (FINALLY) again at Sheffield Hallam. I did a PGCE Early years and primary education with QTS (qualified teacher status) and have just been offered my first ever teaching job with my very own class to start September 2021.
From starting college back in 2011 I am finally where I want to be after 10 years, I do wish I had done it sooner but I have had the opportunity to have many experiences in lots of different settings and schools, training during a pandemic has been tough but I did it.”
Advice for aspiring students
“To current and aspiring students, follow your dreams, it doesn’t matter how long it takes. If you want to do something in life then you absolutely can!”
