Leading by example
Teachers play an integral role in the lives of young people, often becoming role models who spark passion and help unlock their potential.
At Teach First, we’re committed to increasing the diversity of the teaching workforce so that it reflects the communities we work with. This is why we’re working to support every teacher who works with us and help create a fair education for all.
Meet Cayla, a Teach First Ambassador and English Teacher
Cayla shares her experience of teaching with a disability, and how all teachers can support and inspire their pupils:
Breaking down barriers in the classroom
I introduce my condition to my pupils when I first meet them, by playing the icebreaker game - two truths and a lie. This avoids creating a stigma and encourages a positive discussion, enabling them to confidently ask questions.
I have a complex medical condition which means the blood vessels and veins to my lungs are tangled, and my blood clots more easily. As I need supplementary oxygen for twenty-two hours a day, I wear a rucksack containing cylinders, which are connected to tubes to my nose.
Support from Teach First and her schools
Since I began teaching in 2021, I’ve received great support from both schools I’ve worked in and from my training provider – Teach First.
As my condition can mean I become tired very quickly, I’ve been provided with a highchair to sit on as I teach my classes and know that my lessons will be covered even if I have a medical appointment at short notice.
Despite my schools’ limited budgets, I’ve always been able to ask for what I need to do my job well.
Supporting her pupils
Teachers naturally become brilliant role models to all their pupils, but particularly to those they can relate to.
By sharing elements of my disability, I’m showing my pupils that differences can be strengths and barriers can be overcome.
I know that this can make all the difference to pupils with underlying disabilities or who are neurodiverse.
For somebody with a disability, teaching can seem like a daunting profession because it’s exhausting, both mentally and physically.
To attract more brilliant people who have disabilities into teaching, I think they need to see how others have been supported to thrive in the profession, like I have.
Schools can adapt brilliantly to best serve both their pupils and staff, enabling teachers with all abilities to be incredible role models to pupils who really need them.
I’ve never felt my disability to be a barrier as a teacher and I can’t wait to see where the career takes me.
How Teach First can support you
At Teach First, we’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). We can help personalise support for you during your application, assessment at Development Centre, and we can work to support you at your school.
If you want to make a difference like Cayla, start your journey today.