Pros
My experience working at Bay Leadership Academy has been incredibly rewarding. I joined as an ECT and felt fully supported from day one, with my mentor and the senior team helping me rapidly develop my teaching practice. When I expressed an interest in launching the Duke of Edinburgh Award at our school, I was trusted with the responsibility early on and given excellent guidance to make it a success. The opportunities for professional development here are outstanding. I’ve been able to complete a range of DofE-related courses, undertake valuable training, and participate in a coaching programme that helped me become an instructional coach. My work has also been recognised through the ECT of the Year award at the Star Awards in Blackburn which was a real highlight of my early career. Now in my fourth year of teaching, I’ve been given the chance to lead enrichment and pupil experience across the school, which is an exciting next step. Bay Leadership Academy is a place where staff are supported, trusted, and encouraged to grow and I’m grateful to be part of such a positive and forward-thinking school.
Cons
Teaching can be full on and there are definitely days at the end of term where we are all feeling tired! However, Bay/Star are so supportive with their staff initiatives and know where the 'pinch points' are and they make sure we have some treats to get us through those tough weeks! Any time I have had a problem with a pupil or have had a tough day, my Head of Department and Principal's doors are always open and I feel comfortable popping in for a chat about the challenges I am facing.