Why did you choose teaching and why Hibernia College? 

I chose teaching because I love working with children. As a teacher, it is very rewarding to have the opportunity to make an impact on the lives of the children entrusted to my care. I chose Hibernia College because of the blended approach to learning. As I had a young family when I applied for the course, such a flexible approach to learning was important to me as it enabled me to balance home life with my studies.

What field of work or study were you in before you started your PME? 

I graduated from U.C.C with a Bachelor of Arts in Gaeilge, German and Music. I subsequently completed the Higher Diploma in Education and I taught at second level for a number of years. I found myself drawn more and more to primary level teaching, especially when my children came along. I decided to take the leap and I never looked back.

Can you tell us a bit about your research project and why you focused on this area? 

The aim of my research was to investigate how school cultures that promote the achievement of teacher agency influence the enactment of curricular change. As a second level teacher, the successful enactment of curricular change has always been an area of interest for me. Teacher agency facilitates the alignment of professional values and practice as well as the promotion of collaborative professionalism. Establishing school cultures that nurture the achievement of teacher agency can provide a solid foundation to support the enactment of curricular change.

Now that you have graduated, what are your plans? 

I am currently teaching a wonderful bunch of Second Class pupils in Butlersbridge National School in County Cavan. Throughout the Droichead process, I am learning from and supported by all members of the school community. I will also endeavour to continue my own professional learning in the future to continuously enhance learning and teaching in my classroom.

What piece of advice would you give to any person considering starting a PME?

If you have your heart set on becoming a primary teacher, just go for it. At times, the workload will seem overwhelming, but take it one step at a time. Take all the support that is on offer — from your lecturers, placement tutors, fellow students, co-operating teachers and most importantly, from your family. Being organised and adopting a consistent approach to your studies is the key to success. There will be ups and downs, but it is a learning journey that is certainly worth taking.