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We are proud to share that Ms Chan, Teacher in charge of Key Stage 3 Music at Westminster City School, recently returned to the IOE, UCL’s Faculty of Education and Society, as a guest panellist for their Institute Professional Studies Day, held on Wednesday 18 June. The event welcomed over 550 student teachers who are preparing for their first year as Early Career Teachers (ECTs).

The day focused on preparing these future teachers for the challenges and opportunities of entering the profession. Ms Chan, a graduate of the IOE’s PGCE Music programme, was specially invited by the university to share her experiences.

Declan, Head of the PGCE course at UCL, explained the decision to invite her:

“We requested Grace to join us as she engaged fully in our PGCE secondary programme previously, being a leader amongst the music cohort. Grace spoke with confidence about her first year of Early Career Framework Entitlement, providing student teachers with practical examples of how to overcome challenges or foster new networks. Her enthusiasm and energy came through her responses and set a great example to new teachers of what can be achieved by channelling dedication and effort; we were lucky she was given permission to attend.”

Reflecting on her invitation to speak, Ms Chan said:

“It truly means a great deal to me to be chosen for this event and to have my achievements recognised by the IOE, UCL. My time at the IOE was incredibly formative, and I feel very fortunate to be able to continue engaging with the community even after graduating. Being invited back in this way is both an honour and a reminder of how far I’ve come.”

When asked what it was like returning to speak at the very lecture she once attended as a student, Ms Chan added:

“It felt quite surreal to be sitting on the panel, especially knowing that I was in the audience for the very same lecture just last year. Reflecting on how much I’ve grown professionally and what I’ve been able to accomplish in that time made the experience especially meaningful. It was such a privilege to be asked thoughtful questions and to have Music PGCE students seek my advice, it was honestly the most rewarding part of the day.”

At Westminster City School, Ms Chan has already made a great impact in her first year of teaching. One of her proudest achievements has been the launch of the school’s new chamber choir.

“Introducing repertoire that hadn’t previously been explored and watching students discover a love for singing has been a real joy,” she said. “Being able to take them to perform at incredible venues through our school partnerships has been a proud and fulfilling experience and a true testament to what’s possible when students are inspired and supported.”

Ms Chan credits the support of the school’s leadership and her mentors for her growth and development as an ECT:

“Westminster City School has been instrumental in my development. I’ve been incredibly lucky to work under our Headteacher, Mr Broughton, who has consistently supported and trusted me to build something meaningful within our department. His encouragement, along with the guidance and mentorship of my induction tutor, Mr Moulton, has helped shape the teacher I’m becoming. I owe so much of my progress to their support and belief in me.”

Ms Chan’s journey from trainee teacher to a confident panellist and Music lead is a great reminder of the support in place at Westminster City School for new teachers entering the profession.