Chrystel St Ledger
Team Leader for T-Levels and Teacher of Child and Health Studies
On work-life:
“I have been working at NewVIc for almost seven years, I love teaching here. It is an extremely busy, challenging and fast evolving environment. The rewards are immense for staff and students alike; but it also means you must always be at the top of your game. I work with a fantastic team of colleagues, we are supportive of each other and our students. Positive working relationships and an enabling environment are pivotal to our success. NewVIc is a great place to work and study because the teachers here are committed to making sure students are safe, happy and well, and that they thrive within an inclusive, diverse and creative environment. This is so important, Newham is an area of high needs and deprivation. At NewVIc we are all proud to be making a difference for the future. We have a holistic approach to the development of our students, there's a lot of experience and expertise amongst us, we have outstanding student support services and enrichment activities, so that as far as possible, the needs, interests and aspirations of every individual student are met.”
“We have a holistic approach to the development of our students, there's a lot of experience and expertise amongst us, so that as far as possible, the needs, interests and aspirations of every individual student are met.”
On the most inspiring person you have met:
“It is hard to pick one person as I have been inspired by so many people in my life who have helped shape me into the person I am today. I would start with my wonderful parents who worked hard to give me and my siblings the very best start in life. My grandparents who lived through war and conflict and survived many hardships; their stories taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance to overcome any obstacle. I have been fortunate to learn from inspirational teachers and colleagues past and present, who have been my role models. My own children and indeed my students have taught me as much as I have taught them.”
On your teaching career:
“My background is teaching in the early years and primary sector; I have also managed nursery settings. I then progressed to teaching childcare and health and social care to adults and 16-19 year olds. It continues to be a varied, rewarding and fulfilling career. I enjoy the opportunity to further my own and others’ professional development. I have really enjoyed working with colleagues across different teams and curriculum areas to develop our capacity to deliver T-Levels at NewVIc. We are ready to deliver our first two T Levels from September 2021, one in Education and Childcare and the other in Construction.”
On student progression:
“We are proud and passionate about supporting our students’ progress. Helping them to learn, grow and develop the essential skills, attitudes and behaviours to succeed in their chosen careers, for example as outstanding teachers, is of paramount importance to us. We achieve this through strong teamwork, and a well-planned curriculum that includes substantial work placements within students’ chosen industries. This is supported by our many employer partners who welcome our students to their organisations and support them with on the job training. There is great satisfaction and reward in helping our students meet their potential and to see them progress to university or employment, and it’s wonderful to see them come back and share their successes with us.”