Fiona McEwan

I studied English language and literature as a mature student at the University of Sunderland and then continued onto the PGCE PCET to achieve my dream of becoming an English teacher.

In my role as an English teacher in the further education sector, I taught functional skills, GCSE and A Level English as well as A level drama. During this time I was able to develop my practice to meet the diverse needs of my learners, but also realised that I wanted to continue my academic studies and further enhance my teaching.

I enrolled on the University of Sunderland Education MA and alongside this was given the opportunity to teach on the PGCE PCET. My participation in the MA whilst also teaching on the PCET has enabled me to critically reflect on my teaching practice and the process of training to teach.

My particular interest is in the complexities of the mentoring process of trainee teachers and my research has empowered me to effectively guide the trainees throughout their placements and encourage positive relationships with their mentors.