Meet Hadeel Clayton - LST's First Primary Trainee Teacher

We’re proud to share the story of our first-ever Primary Trainee Teacher Hadeel Clayton, who joined Atkinson Road Primary Academy through the Laidlaw Schools Trust Train to Teach programme.

Hadeel began her journey studying English Literature at Northumbria University. It was during an optional school placement in her second year that she discovered her passion for teaching. After completing her degree and gaining supply teaching experience, she joined Atkinson Road full-time through the LST programme.

“The school’s local to me, and I wanted to work in a community like this.”

From her first day, Hadeel has been fully immersed in the school community. She has had the opportunity to spend time in every class, building relationships with staff and pupils alike. She describes the children as incredible, welcoming and curious and loves being able to greet every child by name.

Now training in Year 2, Hadeel hopes to continue her career at Atkinson Road once she qualifies.

“There are challenges here, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding. I want to help close the gap in education.”

Her advice for anyone considering the Train to Teach programme is simple: Get involved in everything, push yourself and have fun. Working with children is such a joy.

To find out more about the Train to Teach programme and how to apply, click here.