Members

Graduate profile: Jessica Lawrie

Name?

Jessica Lawrie

Age?

25.

Job title?

Design & Technology Teacher.

Employer?

Wandsworth Council.

What does your current job involve?

Teaching 11-16 year olds in a large mixed school in South London. We cover all aspects of DT, with me specialising in Graphics.

What is the best bit about your job?

Working with some lovely kids and seeing them produce things they're really proud of.

What is the worst bit about your job?

Marking, Parent's evenings and detentions!

What other jobs have you had since leaving university?

I worked in the office of Next for a while where I was responsible for all the banking, money, admin etc, and I also worked for a large Architects studio in London in their Graphics department, helping to put together all their brochures, documents etc.

What course did you study at university?

BA (Hons) Communication Design.

How has your degree and experience helped you in your current role?

I would not be able to teach this subject if I did not have a relevant degree, and also my previous job in the architects needed me to be proficient in many computer programmes etc that I'd studied at university.

What are your top tips for UP for It members interested in a career similar to yours?

Consider all the options when training to teach, I did a GTP which is full-time, paid in school. It suited me but it can be quite a lonely experience as you are often left to fend for yourself! A PGCE (an extra year at university) may be a better option for some.