Being a Primary Teacher provides key advice on preparing for and undertaking final placements, securing the first teaching post and getting ready for the first class, through to the first year of teaching. Throughout the book, Bronwen Cullum draws on her years of experience teaching in primary schools and in a university working with trainee teachers to provide guidance and support for teachers.

Divided into three parts, the book explores the various challenges that those learning to be teachers face in the early stages of their career. It includes numerous practical examples, useful resources and templates as well as check lists at the end of each chapter. The chapters explore essential topics including:

• applying for a job and preparing for interviews;
• building and managing relationships in the classroom and with staff;
• the transition from training to the first job as a primary school teacher;
• preparation for the progress of children;
• looking after yourself.

This book is an essential read for trainees and newly qualified teachers wanting to enhance their professional development and maximise their potential so that they can fully enjoy the profession of teaching.

About the Author

Bronwen Cullum is a former primary teacher and university lecturer. She was the Deputy Director for Primary and Early Years at Kingston University London, UK.

Reviews

"This book enables future educators to engage with skilful advice and examples of Bron's inspirational experiences as a teacher. It is a great insight to all aspects of teaching and the acquired skills to create your individual presence within your own classroom culture. Many of the components covered will motivate you to embrace and challenge your own practice; whilst supporting you as you embark on this exciting journey. I really wish I could have read this before starting my own journey."
- Stacie Bousfield, Recently Qualified Teacher

"An excellent resource to guide every new teacher through the magical maze of education."
- Kevin Hogston, Head Teacher at Collis Primary School, London

"I wish I had this book to hand when I was a newly qualified teacher! It offers such sage and practical advice for everything a new teacher may encounter when starting in their new role. It is also an excellent resource for mentors to remind them of the enormity of the role of an NQT. Bron gently guides the new teacher through the challenges of dealing with colleagues, SLT, children, parents, whilst at the same time stressing the importance of a good work life balance and wellbeing. Bronwen's book allows you to dip into a chapter and get the advice and guidance you need for the stage you are at in your teaching journey. I would recommend this book to all final placement trainees as well as all newly qualified teachers."
- Sue Jakob, Deputy Head & School Based Mentor for ITT students

"This book gives you the inside track on what to do and what to reflect on, during the early stages of your journey into teaching. Bron has distilled her experience as a teacher and learner into guidance and encouragement that will make you the best you can be'.
- Emma Norman, Recently Qualified Teacher

"This is a must-read for all new teachers entering the Teaching Profession. In this enlightening book, Bron Cullum prepares beginning teachers for their NQT year to ensure that they find the most suitable school where they can flourish and make a difference to the pupils in their care. Exploring the demands of teaching from personal experience and the experiences of many trainee teachers, Bron's love of teaching shines through on every page."
- Rachel Leventhall, Educational Consultant

"A brilliant look at the period of transition from teacher training to the NQT year. It provides insights based on years of experience about the practicalities of preparing for and experiencing a time of high demand for new teachers during which they start to form their professional identities. Bron's understanding of the pitfalls and sources of help on offer to new teachers provides advice that can help them manage their own wellbeing and develop the all-important qualities of resilience. I would highly recommend this book to beginning teachers and those who seek to support and guide them".
- Matthew Sossick, Deputy Director and Head of Initial Teacher Education at the University of Roehampton, London

"This book will be invaluable for anyone involved in the journey to becoming a teacher. It puts forward clear, rational advice, often illustrated through stories and experiences that highlight common areas for development, whilst pointing to support and guidance along the way.

The chapter checklists offer a helpful layer of practically and the personal perspective gives meaningful insight into the shared experiences and reality of early teaching for students, NQTs and mentors alike.

A welcome and refreshing contrast to other books of this type - extremely readable and immensely reassuring. You are not alone!"
- Mari Jo Valentine, Head of Department of Teacher Education at Kingston University, London

"I can see this being a must read for early career teachers as it is written in a very approachable manner with clear chapters that can be dipped into or read as a whole. The wealth of experience demonstrated in the way this is written ensures that it transcends any fads, becoming solid advice that will last! The checklists and tips will support teachers who are in the early stages of their first post, or for teachers looking to increase their understanding of a particular area of their teaching. I will certainly be putting this onto a recommended reading list and will be using it as a resource to support my trainee teachers, NQTs and RQTs."
- Georgina Verrinder, Professional Coordinator, Poole SCITT

Book Information
ISBN 9780367278892
Author Bronwen Cullum
Format Paperback
Page Count 158
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 299g