As a key member of the apprenticeship team, Elizabeth Maher may be a familiar face to anyone studying an education or early years apprenticeship, but did you know she studied with us too? read her experience of completing the learning & skills teacher apprenticeship below!
What your experience was before you did the Learning & Skills Teacher apprenticeship?
I have worked at BLC since July 2020 as an Instructor/Mentor in the Early Years and Education Apprenticeship department. Prior to joining, I earned both an Early Years degree and a Master’s in Education, which gave me a solid foundation in educational theory, pedagogy, and child development. In my role, I have developed instructional and mentoring skills, creating tailored learning plans and providing support for learners with varied needs. This position helped me gain practical experience in supporting apprentices, assessing progress, and adapting learning strategies – skills that laid the groundwork for the formal techniques I learned in the Learning & Skills Teacher (LST) apprenticeship.
What did you enjoy about the Learning & Skills Teacher apprenticeship?
I enjoyed the structured and comprehensive nature of the LST apprenticeship, particularly how it blended theory with hands-on teaching techniques. I found the reflective practice elements and feedback sessions invaluable, as they allowed me to assess my own teaching methods and refine them in real time. Additionally, collaborating with fellow apprentices and learning from experienced mentors was both inspiring and motivating. The apprenticeship gave me a deeper understanding of effective instructional strategies and an expanded toolkit for engaging learners
What did you gain from the Learning & Skills Teacher apprenticeship?
Through the LST apprenticeship, I gained a stronger foundation in lesson planning, assessment strategies, and the pedagogical theories underpinning effective teaching. I now have a greater confidence in my ability to design engaging, learner-centred experiences that meet diverse needs. Additionally, I developed my skills in providing constructive feedback and managing group dynamics, which are essential for guiding apprentices through their learning journey. Completing the apprenticeship has also made me more reflective and intentional in my practice, ensuring that I continuously seek to improve as an educator.
What do you plan to do now that you have qualified, and how do you think this had supported you as a professional Teacher?
Now that I am qualified, I aim to continue my role with an enhanced focus on implementing the techniques and insights I’ve gained. I plan to take on additional responsibilities within the department, such as developing resources for newer instructors or contributing to curriculum design initiatives. Additionally, I’m considering pursuing additional certifications or training in areas like curriculum development or inclusive education to further broaden my impact and support my learners more effectively.
This apprenticeship has profoundly supported my growth as a professional teacher by equipping me with a well-rounded set of teaching, assessment, and mentoring skills. I am now more confident in adapting my approach to fit each learner’s unique needs, utilising reflective practices to evaluate and enhance my methods. The apprenticeship has also strengthened my ability to build supportive learning environments, which is essential for working with apprentices who may face additional challenges. Overall, the experience has deepened my understanding of what it means to be an effective and responsive teacher, prepared to support learners at every stage of their journey.
