Rebecca Morris, Sacred Heart Boys' Primary School

www.sacredheartprimaryschoolbelfast.com

Subject or Primary school year: Primary School Teacher with Music Specialism
Your place of birth: Belfast
Studied at: St. Mary's University College
First job: Next Retail
What it taught me: Teamwork is so important as we all have different strengths
Family/status: Single
Best advice you could give someone thinking of a teaching career: Good planning and preparation are very important. Be committed to working hard and prepare to be flexible, as no two days are ever the same. A teacher is always learning within their career and this flexiblity to adapt and try new methods and techniques to learning will encourage the children in your class to be curious to learn, think differently and develop a thirst for knowledge. This in turn will ensure that they excel within their learning journey. Hard work pays off especially when you see the progress ocuring within the children, it is so rewarding!

I went to St. Louise's Comprehensive College on the Falls Road and studied English Literacture, Media Studies and Music. During my time at St. Louise's I was also involved in the City of Belfast School of Music and was a member of their Youth Orchestra playing Violin for three years. During my time with the Youth Orchestra I had the opportunity to take part in a concert tour within Italy and I also played at the Royal Albert Hall in London. This inspired me with the passion to share my skill and love of Music with young children.
 I then went on to study at St. Mary's University College to train to become a teacher. In 2016 I was offered the opportunity to teach at Sacred Heart Boys' Primary School. The children that I have taught have helped me to become an even better teacher, as I strive to cater for the range of interests and different learning styles within every class that I teach.
 I also am the Music Co-ordinator which allows me to help shape the Music Curriculum within Sacred Heart PS. The children experience a range of skills such as African Drumming, Samba, Ukuele, percussion, Tin whistle and singing. My belief is that Music is a subject for all, where everyone can gain success, develop confidence whilst having fun.
 Last year I was offered the opportunity to become an Associate Lecturer in Music for St.Mary's University and this have furthered my career where I can now influence the teachers' of the future by sharing my beliefs and good practice within the classroom.
 I am currently studying a Masters Degree in Education and within this degree I am developing my personal interest in Theraputic Music Techniques which I hope will benefit all the children that I teach and provide me with the opportunity to also share my knowledge with others. I am also involved with the Steps To Leadership Programme led by the Education Authority.
 I strongly believe that teaching strategies and techniques are never static and we as teachers are always learning and trying to improve our skills in order to benefit the children who we engage with on a daily basis.
 A career in teaching was the best decision I ever made, as I really enjoy influencing the experiences and leading the learning journey of a child.