Sophie is a Talented English and History Graduate with Aspirations of Teaching - Available Now for TA Roles
Sophie is an enthusiastic English and History graduate from the University of Sheffield who is keen to begin her career in primary education as a Teaching Assistant or Literacy Intervention Assistant. With a genuine ambition to become a Primary Teacher, she is looking for the opportunity to immerse herself in school life, build meaningful classroom experience and make a positive contribution to pupils’ learning and confidence.
Sophie has a particular passion for literacy and storytelling and would be an excellent addition to a primary school looking for a warm, articulate and academically strong graduate who can engage younger learners and inspire a love of reading.
Education & Qualifications
- BA (Dual Hons) English and History - Upper Second Class: The University of Sheffield
- A Levels: History (A*), Politics (A*), English Literature (A) – Woodhouse College
- GCSEs: 9 (Grades 9–5), including English and Maths – JFS, London
Experience Summary
Sophie combines a strong academic background with excellent communication skills and a natural enthusiasm for working with children. Her experience volunteering with a Story Book Club at a local primary school confirmed her desire to work in education, while her English and History degree has given her particularly strong foundations for literacy support. Approachable, thoughtful and eager to learn, she has the potential to make a real impact supporting pupils both in the classroom and through targeted literacy intervention.
- Volunteered with a Story Book Club at a local primary school, reading stories with children, encouraging discussion and helping pupils feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.
- Her English and History degree has developed sophisticated written and verbal communication skills, alongside extensive experience interpreting texts, constructing arguments and communicating ideas clearly.
- Sophie particularly enjoyed bringing stories to life for younger pupils and using discussion to encourage their participation, making her well suited to reading, comprehension and literacy-focused support.
- Achieved AAA at A Level before completing an Upper Second Class degree at Sheffield, demonstrating the work ethic, organisation and academic confidence she can bring into a school environment.
- University presentations, group projects and extensive academic writing have strengthened her ability to communicate information effectively and adapt her approach for different audiences.
- Experience in busy hospitality and retail environments has developed Sophie’s interpersonal skills, teamwork and ability to remain calm and professional while responding positively to different people and situations.
- Completed substantial independent research during her degree, including dissertation research at the Bodleian Library, demonstrating curiosity, independence and the ability to engage thoughtfully with a wide range of sources.
- Sophie sees a Teaching Assistant position as an important first step towards becoming a Primary Teacher and is enthusiastic about learning from experienced school staff while supporting children academically and personally.
Key Strengths
- Strong literacy, written English and verbal communication skills
- Natural enthusiasm for reading, storytelling and pupil discussion
- Experience engaging younger children in a primary school setting
- Warm, approachable and confident interpersonal manner
- Strong academic background and excellent work ethic
- Patient and supportive approach to building pupil confidence
- Organised, responsible and comfortable working as part of a team
- Genuine ambition to progress into primary teaching
- Particularly well suited to literacy, reading and comprehension support
- Enthusiastic about contributing positively to wider primary school life