Ciara Nic Giolla Cheara

Gaelscoil na Móna

School website: Gaelscoilnamona.com 
Subject or primary school year: Primary 4/5.
Your place of birth: Belfast.
Studied at: Queen's and St Mary’s University College.
First job: Classroom assistant at Gaelscoil na bhFál.
What it taught me: I went into the job of a classroom assistant with the aim of gaining experience before applying for my PGCE. My experience working as a one-on-one classroom assistant was so positive and rewarding and it paved the way for my teaching journey.
Family/status: Single.
Best advice you could give someone thinking of a teaching career: Be prepared, be reflective, adaptive and explore the different styles of teaching. Develop positive relationships with your students. Remember, you are the greatest resource in the classroom, never stop finding new ways to help every child reach their potential. 

I was educated myself through Irish medium from primary school at Scoil na Fuiseoige and went on to St Dominic’s where I decided early that I wanted to be a teacher. I completed my Irish degree at Queen’s and then worked as a CA before going on to complete my PGCE at St Mary’s University. For three years of my teaching career I was working in two schools, one job share as a class teacher at Gaelscoil na Móna and working with small groups or one-on-one with the Engage programme at Scoil na Fuiseoige. I have also had some subbing experience in other great schools. I have loved being full time in the classroom, this year at Gaelscoil na Móna and making it my own. I have undertaken the ICT Co-ordinator role for the year, which has been a great learning experience. I love being part of the whole school network between staff, pupils and parents and I am extremely grateful to be in this career, guiding children in their learning journey.