Andrew Wyllie

How would you describe the past year in three words?

Rollercoaster. Tough. Rewarding.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

It is something I toyed with for a long time before committing to it. I spent a fair bit of time volunteering to really get a feel for the role. I truly believe that teachers can make a difference. We can be someone’s consistent role model, the person who makes them feel safe and inspired.

Who was your favourite teacher at school and why?

My primary 7 teacher, Miss Stewart. She was such a warm and happy person. Everyone was important to Miss Stewart and you really felt like she cared. It was a happy place to be, Miss Stewart was a large part of that. We recently had the opportunity to reconnect over Facebook. She had not changed, she was still as kind as  remembered. She even sent my newborn a gift!

What’s the one thing you’d like to change about teaching?

Paperwork! I think that would be most people’s answers. Paperwork, of course, has its place however, pointless or paperwork for the sake of paperwork is the bane of existence. The paperwork load for the postgraduate course is very, very heavy.

Why do you think it’s important to be an active member of a trade union?

Trade unions protect the rights of the worker. They arm us with support and advice when we require it. Without trade unions teachers across Scotland would have struggled to make the recent pay increase gains that they have achieved. That’s why it’s so vital that we support our trade unions, without them we would be isolated and voiceless. Without trade unions teachers across Scotland would have struggled to make the recent pay increase gains that they have achieved. 

Any embarrassing teaching moments?

Ah, far too many! Every child is a fashionista, always with a comment to make regarding clothing, hair and any other area they feel free to comment on! If I had to pick, I would probably say falling off the obstacle course!

What advice would you give to a student starting their teaching course?

Make time for yourself! The course is intense, it’s a lot of hard work, late nights and hours of wondering if you really have it in you. Making space for yourself is a must. I’d recommend putting the hours in through the week, take the weekends for yourself. It’s also just so rewarding, the good moments outweigh the bad. The universities and the staff at school want you to succeed. You’ve got this!!

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned about teaching so far?

So many! Start each day fresh. Don’t carry the bad bits forward, park them in the past and keep moving forward.