Education Personal Statement Example

My decision to become a teacher has developed partly out of my enthusiasm for chemistry as an academic discipline, but also out of a growing appreciation, which has emerged from my experience of the work place as well as the seminar room, that I have a natural aptitude for guiding and instructing others.  My degree has equipped me very efficiently to cover many areas of the National Curriculum in science, and in my working life I have quickly been given roles which call for me to advise and train colleagues.  I believe that the study of science is an essential for the young, not simply because our prosperity as a nation depends on technology and innovation, but because the scientific habit of mind promotes rational and critical thinking, and develops the understanding of the way we draw conclusions from empirical evidence in many areas of life.  Although I have found my observations of primary school children full of fascination, it is the 11 to 18 age groups that really interest me because of their ability to take responsibility for their own learning, and their readiness to question and discuss complex ideas.  I should like to be able to inspire my pupils with a love of my subject, and to develop their maturity of thought and understanding of the world they are about to enter.

My degree consisted principally of chemistry, covering organic and polymer chemistry and chemical processes, all central to the requirements of the National Curriculum, and all supported by substantial laboratory work.  I also undertook modules in physics and engineering which support the “How Science Works” and “Energy, Forces and Space” components of the N.C.  My work in biology and environmental chemistry similarly support the topics concerned with organisms and conservation, a particular interest of mine.  I have continued to keep abreast of developments in the field of chemistry through reading scientific texts and journals, and I am in the process of becoming a member of the RSC.  I am also a member of the ASE.

I work at present as a supply escort/carer with SEN children, which involves visiting specialist schools and dealing with the often complex needs of the individual child.  I often work in isolated and challenging situations which call for maturity of approach and much patience and resourcefulness, though I am also very much a part of a team, communicating with parents and staff. Witnessing the beneficial effects of education even on children with serious learning difficulties is revelatory and inspiring.

I worked for some time in retail sales, which taught me the importance of clear and concise communication.  I was required to explain concepts to other staff under tight commercial pressure, and I trained a new colleague, allowing her to shadow me and then gradually withdrawing support as she grew more confident.  The firm awarded me their “Company Role Model” status in recognition of my ability. Similarly, at university, in recognition of my academic ability and my skills as a guide, I was asked to tutor a fellow student who was having difficulties in chemistry.  He went on to pass his exams in the subject. I became a student mentor, offering a weekly “surgery” to help others with university life.

These roles have taught me techniques of conveying information to others and leading them to understand material which they had found challenging.  I have learnt the importance of an enthusiastic attitude in the teacher, and of the need to deconstruct concepts and explain things in clear English, linking them to real-life situations. All of these experiences have taught me the importance of the teacher’s role and the range of abilities and skills he or she needs to develop.  I have also come to a firm realisation of the huge rewards the profession can offer.  I am an ambitious, mature and reliable individual, with a clear vision of the ways I should like to use my talents, and I hope you will consider my application.

Did you find this Education Personal Statement Example useful? If you did, check out other sample statements on the site... If you didn't, check out other sample statements on the site!