What it's like to be a secondary school teacher

How did you get into teaching?

During my three years of study at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA), elements of the course explored working with young children in an educational setting.

As part of my final project, I collaborated with local schools in the area to address the stigmas surrounding young people. This is when I truly believed that I could have an impact on the generation of today.

That experience opened my eyes to the power of education and how one project, lesson, or conversation can make a real difference. It was then that I knew I wanted to teach and inspire others through creative learning.

After graduating, I returned home to Manchester to complete my PGCE, and that's where my teaching journey began.

What did your PGCE involve?

The PGCE consisted of weekly lectures, classroom placements, lesson observations and CPD (continuing professional development) training.

It was full on, but also incredibly rewarding. Between planning lessons, writing assignments and spending time in schools, I had to learn how to balance my time effectively, which is still an important skill today.

I taught in schools three days a week and spent the remaining two in lectures or planning sessions. Alongside that, I worked part time in a bar to support myself, which also gave me a nice break from studying. That balance really helped me to stay grounded and enjoy the process.

What does a typical day as a secondary school teacher involve?

Each morning starts with a staff or department briefing, where we catch up on the week's priorities, upcoming events and any student successes.

In addition to teaching drama and English, I also serve as a form tutor for a Year 8 group, which means I see my form every morning. It's a lovely way to start the day, checking in with them, celebrating achievements and supporting them with anything they need.

The rest of the day is a mix of teaching, rehearsals, planning and marking. Some weeks are busier than others, especially around assessments or school productions. I love the buzz of drama in particular, directing school shows, helping with concerts and supporting students in rehearsals for their exam pieces. Watching them grow in confidence and creativity is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job.

How many hours do secondary school teachers work?

On average, I work around 10 hours a day, which equates to 50 hours a week.

However, every day is different. Some evenings I'll stay later for meetings, while other weeks are taken up with marking, data entry or rehearsals for the school production. There are also quieter evenings when I can head home earlier and prepare for the next day. The variety keeps things interesting, and that's what I love about it.

What time does your day start?

I usually wake up around 6.30am for an 8am start. I like to arrive before the school day begins so I can prepare for lessons, grab a coffee, and chat with colleagues before the day starts. This is a personal choice, as you can just get in for 8:30 if you prefer.

How long is a lunch break for a secondary school teacher?

We get a 45-minute lunch break and a 15-minute morning break. Sometimes I'll grab a bite to eat and catch up on marking, other times I'll use the time to chat with students involved in the production, or just take a moment to reset for the afternoon. It's always a good chance to pause and recharge.

What time do most teachers go home?

While some teachers leave as soon as the bell rings and take their marking and planning home, others choose to stay until around 5.30pm. But it really depends on the day.

For instance, some afternoons I'll head off after the final bell to do planning at home, but I often stay for rehearsals, school events or extra-curricular activities.

During show season, I'm often in the drama studio long after the end of the school day, but I love it. There's nothing quite like seeing students' hard work come alive on stage.

What are the highlights of your career so far?

There have been many special moments in my teaching career, but one that stands out is receiving our GCSE and A-level drama results in 2022. They were among the best the school had ever achieved, and I remember feeling incredibly proud of the students. Their creativity, effort, and teamwork throughout the year were incredible, and seeing that reflected in their results was a truly rewarding moment. It reminded me exactly why I wanted to become a teacher - to help young people believe in themselves and realise what they are capable of.

Another big highlight has been being part of our school productions, including directing Grease and Come From Away. Working on these shows with the students is always such a joy. From the very first audition to opening night, I get to watch them grow in confidence, develop new skills and support each other like a true ensemble. Seeing them perform with so much passion and pride on stage is an amazing feeling, and it is those moments of magic that make all the hard work worthwhile.

What's the hardest part of secondary teaching?

Finding the right work/life balance can be tricky, especially when you care deeply about what you do. It's easy to keep going long after the school day ends. Over time, I've learned that taking care of your own wellbeing makes you a better teacher. It's something I still work on, but each year I get a little better at switching off when I need to.

What has surprised you the most about becoming a teacher?

The impact I have on the lives of young people. That one lesson can really make a positive impact on so many individuals - you don't often realise what you're doing. This became apparent to me when the young people would stay behind after class and simply say, 'thanks for today, miss,' 'I really loved that lesson,' 'thanks for listening to me,' etc. These are just some examples I hear daily, which really surprised me at the start of this job. It makes you love teaching more and more.

What are three things you wish you'd known before becoming a secondary teacher?

• There's a lot more admin work than you think.
• You are not alone - each school provides wellbeing support. Take it if you need it. Don't shy away because you're worried it would look negative on your part.
• Teaching doesn't end when the bell rings. There's always something happening after school, whether it's planning, marking or putting on a show.

Find out more

• Consider becoming a secondary school teacher.
• Explore what's involved with completing a PGCE.
• Discover how to get a teaching job.