Sarah Knapper
Sun FM breakfast show presenter Sarah Knapper (25) is one of the best known voices in the North East. Despite a successful career as a radio presenter, Sarah had always wanted to teach.
In 2009 she graduated with a PGCE in Post-16 Education and now teaches Journalism and Media at Peterlee College and New College Durham.
Sarah says: "I have always believed in the value of education and was excited about the challenges becoming a teacher would bring. It is a huge responsibility and, along with working in radio, teaching has been a dream of mine from a young age. Also, the radio industry is suffering in the current economic climate, and it seemed wise to have another profession to fall back on."
Sarah got the bug for teaching while volunteering at the Barbara Priestman School for pupils with Special Educational Needs, and continues to mentor pupils there who hope to pursue a career in the media - but she has no plans to quit her day job.
"For me life experience away from education is key before embarking on teacher training. I found working in radio for five years gave me better scope to then apply the subject in the classroom.
"I studied full-time while presenting a daily radio show and, yes, sometimes I found it extremely hard, especially when I was involved in placements and assignments.
"It is not for the faint hearted, but I am so glad I did it. Studying for my PGCE was one of the toughest times of my life. It is a very demanding course but it is also life-changing.
"Many people make the mistake of thinking that after you qualify you can just walk into a job. This is not the case, competition is fierce for jobs that is why it's great to have industry experience.
"Now I have to pinch myself when I walk into a classroom. I can't believe I achieved my dream."
