Q: What is your role?
A: I teach Functional Skills and GCSE English to pupils in Years 9 to 11, creating engaging, wellbeing-focused resources and lessons that build both skills and confidence. I support pupils by breaking English concepts into clear steps and providing scaffolds and practice opportunities tailored to their needs. I also collaborate with colleagues, sharing strategies and resources, and I am beginning my new role as Literacy Lead to explore ways to strengthen reading and writing across the school.

Q: You were identified for Team Talks by your colleagues. Please tell us about this work and why it matters to you.
A: As an English teacher, I enjoy helping my students improve their literacy skills. It is rewarding to see pupils make progress, gain independence and feel proud of their achievements. I also enjoy sharing practical strategies that help colleagues support learners effectively. My new role as Literacy Lead is an opportunity I am excited about because I have always been passionate about exploring new ways to support pupils in developing their literacy skills, especially those with learning difficulties.

“Seeing pupils develop confidence and pride in their work is one of the most rewarding parts of teaching English.”

Q: What motivates you to keep pushing this work forward?
A: I am motivated by a genuine desire to help young people who find learning challenging to develop the skills they need to succeed. Seeing pupils grow in self-belief, enjoy learning and take pride in their progress inspires me every day. Knowing that our work can make a lasting difference in their futures keeps me driven in my role.

Q: What has helped shape your approach? What have you learned along the way?
A: My desire to make a difference in young people’s lives has been a key motivator. I am fortunate to work with an incredible team at Hamilton School who share the same commitment to helping our pupils succeed. Our collective patience, consistency and belief in every pupil make it possible to see real progress and positive change.

“Working with a team who share the same commitment and belief in pupils makes every challenge feel purposeful.”

Q: Which MET value connects most strongly to your work and why?
A: Aim High. I always aim high in everything I do, and I hold the same expectation for my students, supporting them to achieve their best regardless of circumstance or ability. It drives me to create meaningful learning experiences and to help every pupil build confidence and reach their potential.

Q: Do you have any plans for new projects or approaches?
A: As the new Literacy Lead, I am exploring ways to improve literacy across the school. My focus is on identifying gaps in reading and writing, trialling practical interventions like the Spelling and Grammar workbook, and developing strategies that support pupils of all abilities to build confidence and make measurable progress in their English skills.

Thank you, Uche, for taking the time to share your work with us in this Team Talk.

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