Julia Wilcox, Year 3 Teacher

Teacher at St Ann’s Well Academy, Julia Wilcox reflects on what inspired her to become a teacher and what it’s like teaching at the academy.

My name is Julia Wilcox, and I have the joy of being the current Year 3 teacher at St Ann’s Well Academy. I have been here for three years now and started my position as soon as I left my teaching degree. 

What inspired you to become a teacher? 

My reasons for teaching have changed over the years. When I started, I wanted to make a difference to children’s lives and give them more opportunity through education. I still have this as a reason now, but I also want to empower the children to make a change in their lives and others’ too. 

What do you enjoy most about teaching at your current academy? 

My favourite thing about teaching at my school is the warm and friendly environment around us. It is clear to me that every child is valued by every staff member, and we challenge our pupils to succeed for themselves. 

What impact do you hope to make on your pupils every day? 

I hope that every pupil leaves the classroom knowing that someone believes in them and wants the best for their future. I hope that they are inspired to make a difference to their lives but are also aware of how they can help others. I hope that they grow in kindness and acceptance of others, a little bit each day. 

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a teacher? 

The advice I would give is: go for it! Teaching is a hard profession, but it is also very rewarding. I love reflecting on the year and seeing just how much progress the children make, especially seeing them grow in confidence after overcoming challenges.