‘Being able to change young lives is a privilege’ – the sisters who teach at the same school

For Lauren Slye there was no doubt in her mind as to what she wanted to become – from an early age. Inspired by teachers at her school in North Road Infants and then Ferndale Comprehensive in the Rhondda, Lauren says she was always destined to become a teacher.

“I knew exactly what I wanted to be having been inspired by the some of the best teachers growing up,” she said.

“They gave me the confidence and knowledge to succeed, and I knew I wanted to be able to do the same.

“After I completed my degree, joining the PGCE cohort at UWTSD completed that journey for me.

“The course, the fantastic lecturers who supported me throughout and the placements in partner schools that enabled me to put into practice what I was learning, was invaluable.

“Also, the friends I made, all helped to reinforce that it was the right career for me and I’m so happy to be where I am now, teaching Religious Education to my own classes.”

Lauren’s sister Charlotte, just a few years younger, has also chosen a career in education.

“Growing up we were very competitive,” said Lauren. “Everyone at school and our family commented on it. But now, we both teach at the same school, Treorchy Comprehensive and are able to help and support each other. And that’s amazing.”

The sisters are the first in their family to study at university and Lauren said her parents are so proud of them.

“Growing up we were encouraged by our parents to take part in lots of sports clubs in and out of school and we’ve both been able to take that love of sport into our classrooms,” she added.

“It’s a such a privilege to be able to shape young lives and inspire them to achieve great things. And even more of a privilege to be able to share all this with my sister too.

“My advice to anyone considering teaching as a profession, would be to ‘go for it’. It’s so rewarding. It’s also important to love what you do as that helps to inspire youngsters further. Being part of the University’s school partnership network means you are supported by experts throughout and that helps build your confidence too, ready to take your place in a classroom of your own.”

If you’d like to know how you can bring your individual passions to a job in teaching, head to our website to find out more.

Lauren and Charlotte are pictured on their first day in school as pupils (below) and on their first day teaching in the same school (above).

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Swyddog Gweithredol Cysylltiadau â’r Wasg a’r Cyfryngau

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer

Cyfathrebu Corfforaethol a Chysylltiadau Cyhoeddus

Corporate Communications and PR

Mobile: 07384 467071

Email: Rebecca.Davies@uwtsd.ac.uk