Julie Platten
Secondary English and Drama
Why did you decide to become a teacher and why did you choose Cambridge to do your PGCE?
'I've worked in business for a number of years and whilst I've thoroughly enjoyed all the jobs I have had, there has always been something in the back of my mind telling me that the work that I was doing (be it selling t-shirts or writing internal newsletters), was not really that important in the grand scheme of things. It doesn't really matter even if your company loses a big million pound bid - but children's education really does make a difference and what you do each day as a teacher has a massive impact. I chose Cambridge for my PGCE partly because it is actually my local University - I live near Cambridge and would not have been in a position to relocate in order to train. However, Cambridge offers the course I wanted (English with a specific drama focus) and is quite clearly one of the best teacher training establishments in the country - I was keen for a strong academic focus to my training. '
Have you changed career in order to do your teacher training?
'Yes. I have had a variety of jobs but most recently worked with Orange for 8 years where I had a number of roles, latterly as Internal Communications Manager for the group's business function. It would have been easy to stay at Orange where I was paid a lot of money, and had excellent benefits but after a while you realise that money is a bad reason to stay doing something. I finally decided that as I have always wanted to teach, I should just get on and do it. It's corny, but I do believe you only get one life so you have to pack as much into it as possible!'
Any brief comments about the PGCE so far?
'I have been hugely impressed with all aspects of the course. The teaching staff are at the cutting edge of educational research and it's frankly a privilege to be taught by such a stellar faculty. The organisation of the course, in terms of quality of materials, course structure, the way the academic and school-based work interlinks has been fantastic. I've also been impressed with the school partnership approach and the quality of the training offered in school. The support system is fabulous - with a Professional Tutor and Mentor in school as well as a Subject Tutor in the Faculty I have really felt there were people to help where help has been required. '