My name is Damian, and I am currently training to become a design and technology teacher through Ormiston Teacher Training (OTT) and The National Institute of Teaching (NIoT). My interest in design and technology began during my own school years, sparking a life-long ambition to work in the creative industry. Before moving into teaching, I successfully ran my own graphic design and print business. With a deep passion for design, particularly graphic design, I was inspired to use my degree to build a meaningful and rewarding career.
Since joining Sandbach School as a Teaching Assistant and later working as a Higher-Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA), I discovered a real zest for teaching and learning. Being given the opportunity to teach unqualified was a turning point for me, it gave me valuable experience and the knowledge I needed to pursue a career in teaching.
When I started my teacher training, I was excited but naturally anxious about transitioning from a teaching assistant to a teacher. However, my previous experience in the classroom gave me confidence that I could step into the role and begin shaping my own teaching style. I chose the OTT programme after hearing great things from a previous trainee at my school. They spoke highly of how well-structured the training was and how supportive the tutors were, which reassured me that this was the right programme for me.
As part of my training to become a design and technology teacher, I also teach food and nutrition. While I enjoy cooking at home, the thought of leading a lesson in front of twenty students felt daunting. It’s not my strongest subject, but I’ve been lucky to work alongside some fantastic food and nutrition teachers who have shared brilliant advice and tips. Thanks to their support, I now feel much more prepared and confident to teach in the food technology kitchen.
My very first day in the classroom as a teaching assistant feels like a blur. It was new, scary and unpredictable, but also incredibly rewarding. Fast-forward two years, and I found myself sitting at the front of a design and technology workshop with a Year 11 form group questioning whether I was ready for my new role as a teacher. To my surprise, the students were curious, engaged, and happy to have a familiar face leading the lesson.
Any initial nerves quickly faded as I realised I was part of something greater — a supportive community of teachers and learners who value and respect one another. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of reading to my form group, engaging in discussions about their career aspirations, and guiding them in exploring the opportunities available to them. These experiences have been deeply fulfilling and have solidified my belief that teaching is the right path for me.
As a trainee teacher, I have had the privilege of supporting and teaching students across all year groups. Working alongside experienced teachers has been incredibly valuable, allowing me to deepen my subject knowledge and design engaging, informative lesson plans. Collaborating with colleagues has also introduced me to fresh ideas and innovative approaches that I’ve incorporated into my own teaching practice.
I now feel confident in establishing routines, reinforcing behavior policies, and delivering creative, well-structured lessons. The initial anxiety I experienced has been replaced by excitement and a strong sense of purpose. Each day, I look forward to stepping into the classroom, eager to teach, learn and grow in my role.
Looking ahead, I am committed to building on the foundation I’ve established and further expanding my expertise, particularly in food technology. My aim is to craft lessons that not only captivate my students but also inspire them to explore their creativity and interests. Teaching has already been an incredibly rewarding journey, and I am excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.