Hannah King

In this edition we interview an ATL member in her third year of teaching, Hannah King.

You are now in your third year of teaching, how’s it going?
I am thoroughly enjoying it. I have fortunately found a really motivated supportive department to be a part of and that definitely has made a big difference to how I feel about my job.

What’s the most challenging aspect of teaching?
The most challenging aspect of teaching is time management. There is always so much to do and finding the time to fit everything in as well as making time for yourself can be tricky, but as long as I get enough sleep then I enjoy the energy of it.

How have you found behaviour management?
I am very lucky as my school has a good behaviour management policy which is followed by everyone and I definitely feel that having consistency makes a big difference to improving behaviour, as everyone knows where they stand. I haven’t had too many behaviour incidents, with the most annoying thing I find eating into my time is chasing up homework.

How well did your training prepare you?
I thoroughly enjoyed my teaching training and found the university very supportive. I also made a good network of friends who were, and still are, very understanding. We are all going through the same experiences and having that support is really useful.

Knowing that you are not alone is very comforting. I had experience of two different placements – a mixed school and an all boys grammar school - and I feel this has definitely helped in my teaching practice.

You attended ATL Conference 2009, how was it?
I had read the feedback from previous participants and saw it as a great chance for me to mix with other people in my union. Although I attended the annual chairman’s meeting in Kent twice, I actually did not really know many other members.

I was also attracted to Liverpool because of its recent celebration as the European City of Culture. I found it interesting to meet different people and listen to other people's points of view – some I agreed with and others not so much, but having instant feedback on issues that are important to you is helpful.

Was it a worthwhile experience?
I feel it was a worthwhile experience for me as I stepped outside my comfort zone which I think is important to do, and also to chat with other members who have similar experiences. I also found listening to different viewpoints beneficial and thoroughly enjoyed visiting some of the art galleries afterwards.

Any highlights at Conference?
The meal at the end of the conference was very impressive and a lovely way to celebrate together in a beautiful building.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
My main inspiration for being a teacher is the diversity of the job. No two days are the same and I enjoy teaching my subject and wanted the chance to share my experience and knowledge with others.

What do you enjoy the most?
I love the pace of the job and the energy it requires. I love the department I am in and the motivation that it gives me to do more. We work really well as a team and I think that is very important and being a part of that team is a great challenge.

What’s the funniest thing a pupil has said to you?
I am often mistaken for a sixth former which is flattering and I hope continues for many more years!