I am responsible for the nine children in my class. Children with a Specific Learning Disability in reading are referred to our school. We keep them for two years. In that time we try help them catch up with their peers.

In a large classroom, children with problems can often get lost and left behind. In our school they are given lots of special attention in a small class of nine children. Work is set at their level and they almost always thrive in this environment. They learn reading through many enjoyable games and activities, one to one and small group learning, and they always gain in confidence as they progress.

We set specific goals for each child in our class when they arrive in our class in September. We write down and measure these goals in something called an IEP (Individual Education Profile).  In this way we can measure their progress and highlight and target the areas in which they struggle

I am patient and I enjoy working with children. It is nice to know there are people depending on you and that if you do not show up for work you are missed. It is nice to know you make a difference in peoples lives and give them a positive school experience.

Specifically I bring my artistic experience to the classroom and try pass that on to the children. I also coordinate collaborative art projects in the school. Every teacher has their own specific skills in life and it is nice to be able to implement mine in school.

As a working artist teaching allows me a lot of time to pursue my painting. In the last 5 years I have had time to prepare 4 solo exhibitions - something which would be immpossible in almost any other proffession.

You will never be "rolling in money" as a teacher, however it allows you to have a very comfortable standard of living and the time off to travel and pursue other interests. Also it is a rewarding profession as you get to make a difference in childrens lives, and in the current climate of instability it is a very secure job