October 2025

Putting People Before Practice: My Journey Through Human-First Teacher Training

At i2i, training to teach isn’t just about mastering classroom techniques – it’s about nurturing the person behind the teacher. My journey began with self-doubt, but through care, guidance, and genuine connection, I’ve found confidence and belonging.

Initially, I applied to two different SCITT providers and was offered interviews with both, but after my interview with i2i, I knew instantly – this was it. It already felt like a welcoming, supportive environment and I wanted to be a part of it.

From my very first interaction – the emails, pre-interview Zoom call, and interview day – I was surrounded by encouragement and guidance. During my interview, Kelly and I spoke candidly about my struggles with ADHD. She reframed something I had always viewed as a weakness into a superpower – something to be embraced rather than hidden. That conversation alone made me feel seen and valued.

I withdrew my other application and chose i2i because I already felt I belonged. Even before training began, I doubted whether I was capable enough, but I reminded myself that with people like Kelly and Claire, I wouldn’t be walking this journey alone.

 

A Human-First Approach

Teaching is demanding, but it’s not unachievable. What makes i2i stand out is their “human-first” approach. It’s at the heart of everything they do, both in how we’re taught to treat students and how we are treated as trainees.

I ask a lot of questions – sometimes ones that don’t even need to be asked, but neither Kelly or Claire have ever dismissed my curiosity. Their patience and understanding make such a difference when you’re still finding your feet.

 

Easing Into the Classroom

At the start of term, I was overwhelmed with anxiety about the unknown. Teaching can feel like such a huge mountain to climb, but i2i’s approach breaks everything down into manageable steps. We start with behaviour management, then move to entry routines, starter activities, and exit routines – eventually building to full lessons. I am now delivering whole lessons!

Kelly came to observe one of my first entry and starter activities, her feedback left me feeling uplifted. She praised the progress I’d made, and any areas for improvement were framed as positives. It’s reassuring to know that even when I doubt myself, I have people around me who see my potential and remind me of it.

 

The Power of Support

The first couple of weeks in school can feel overwhelming, but it’s also one of the most valuable as it’s a chance to experience ‘school life’ without any additional pressures. Throughout the year, we’re given observation focuses and reflection templates – a really supportive structure that keeps us grounded. I particularly love having the opportunity to observe different teachers, because it helps me decide what kind of teacher I want to be. Every teacher is different, and you don’t have to be a carbon copy of someone else. In fact, we’re all encouraged to be our own authentic selves.

Recently, I had a bit of a wobble. The Professional Mentor at my placement school noticed and contacted Kelly, who checked in with me straight away. That moment reminded me again: you’re never alone.

i2i fosters an incredibly inclusive environment where it feels safe to share how we’re feeling. Often, I find that others in my cohort feel exactly the same way. During our induction, we even spent a whole session discussing what we were worried and excited about — it created a genuine sense of community. Now we are able to lean on each other, and it makes all the difference.

Another huge help is having a care plan. Regardless of diagnosis or circumstance, i2i go above and beyond to ensure that everyone has the space and support they need to thrive. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed – because here, you’re supported through it.

 

Finding the Joy

I’ve found real joy in teaching – especially as I’ve started to build relationships with my students. Those early weeks are so important for connecting before stepping in front of the class. As I’ve spent more time with them, they’ve grown warmer, which makes teaching even more rewarding.

So far this year, I’ve had many ups and downs, but seeing my Year 7’s final pieces after teaching my first full sequence of lessons filled me with pride. They had achieved exactly what I had hoped they would – and in that moment, I knew I’d made the right choice. None of this would have been possible without the continued support.

I’m excited to see where the rest of this year takes me!

If you’re considering teaching and feel unsure, take it from me – you don’t need to have it all figured out straight away. I know I still have so much more to learn. What matters is finding a place that supports you as a person first, and a teacher second. For me, that place is i2i.