Sinead Clarke

First Job: P4 teacher, Holy Rosary Primary School, Belfast.

What it taught me: It taught me that teaching was the right career for me and that working with children is so worthwhile – every day is different! It also taught me the importance of being patient, having a good work ethic and being organised. I learnt it is important not to be afraid to ask for advice. Teamwork and building good relationships with colleagues are essential. I was inspired by the experienced teachers that I worked with at the beginning of my teaching journey and will always be grateful for their advice and support.

Family/status: Single.

Best advice anyone ever gave you: One of the best pieces of advice that anyone ever gave me was to follow the Golden Rule: “Treat others as you would like them to treat you.” Also, my mum and dad have always taught me to work hard, try my best, never give up and be kind. This advice has remained with me in everything that I do. Finally, smile and the world smiles with you!

Best advice you could give someone thinking of a teaching career: Teaching is such a satisfying and rewarding job. It can be challenging but seeing children thrive whilst learning under your care makes it all worthwhile. Always remember to be child-focused to help the children be the best that they can be and reach their full potential. Every child is special and unique. A little bit of praise and encouragement and a smile can go a long way! Over the years I have learnt that working hard, being flexible, leading by example and being organised are the key to success. Also, every day is a school day, so always take on board the advice that you have been given by others. Be enthusiastic, creative and make learning fun whilst thinking about the quote, 'Tell me and I will forget, show me and I will understand, involve me and I will remember.' All the effort is worth it!

I have always wanted to be a teacher, ever since I was in primary school. Over the years I have had many fantastic and inspirational teachers whose influence and guidance has helped me in so many ways. I graduated from St Mary's University College, Belfast, with a BEd in Mathematics in 2003. I started my teaching career in Holy Rosary Primary School, Belfast, where I taught Primary 4 for two years. I knew straight away that I had made the correct career choice as watching the children grow and flourish was so rewarding. I learnt so much in my time there and the advice and support that I was given has always remained with me. In 2005, I was lucky enough to get a permanent position in St Joseph's Primary School, Lisburn, where I currently teach Primary 3. I was privileged to take on the role of 'Promoting the Catholic Ethos' coordinator within school. This role has given me great joy over the years. Every child is unique and it has always been my aim to ensure that all children reach their full potential working within a happy, secure learning environment. I love celebrating the achievements and success of the children in St Joseph’s with parents and the wider school community through our school website and Twitter account. I also coordinate Mathematics and ICT throughout the school and am passionate about each of these curricular areas. I really enjoy being the teacher representative on our PTA as it has enabled me to establish good relationships with a great group of parents whilst also raising funds for school. I love my job and every day is certainly different – I never tire of hearing children's stories and love to see smiles on their faces. Happy children learn!