Claire Sheerin

Having grown up in the North of Ireland post troubles, I know first hand how important it is to provide students with a holistic education which enables all students to flourish academically and to develop their skills, gifts and talents. I am ready for a new challenge in a school that enables all pupils to fulfil their potential. I value the importance in a school community that demonstrates a passion and commitment to the achievement and wellbeing of all. I want to offer authentic learning experiences where pupils can enjoy learning and therefore achieve success. I also recognise how paramount a caring and supportive climate, fully embraced by committed teachers is.

I truly believe I would be an asset to any school. I have obtained skills already in my short career as both a departmental post holder and as a pastoral leader, that would enable me to effectively carry out the role of teacher of Business and Economics. I would greatly appreciate the chance to express my passion for the subject of Business Studies and my commitment to working in an educational setting that highlights high levels of integrity and excellence. I believe I have the capability of helping young people work together and seek to enable all pupils to seek inquisitiveness and be the best within themselves. I know I can inspire young people to truly recognise their individual gifts and to positively strive for excellence with the potential to be leaders in the future.

As a practicing Catholic and someone who takes pride in her principals, I believe I can be loyal and committed to the values of any school. I support the importance of fostering an environment that allows each individual to develop their full potential in the spirit of respect, integrity and well-being. I believe in the importance of encouraging learners to respect and care for each other, whilst also ensuring positive communication and enjoyable experiences within an educational setting.

As a classroom teacher I set clear and appropriate learning objectives and outcomes. I actively pass on knowledge and understanding of the key concepts and processes of the curriculum; using creativity, imagination and a variety of teaching styles to motivate, challenge and support all students. I reward students for their effort and achievement in line with whole school and departmental policies, have high expectations of all students and show a commitment to every student’s success and follow whole school and departmental procedures for behaviour and learning.

There is no doubt that it was my teachers who inspired me. They instilled in me my passion in my subject areas and my commitment to the service of others. I therefore aspire to be a similar role model to the students of today.

Since qualifying (June 2018) I have sought opportunities to develop and expand on my teaching experience and have been recognised as an ‘outstanding’ classroom practitioner. During my time at Saints Peter and Paul, I am regularly used as an example of good practice and have moderated, gained accreditation as an exam board marker, collaboratively planned and had a positive impact on pupil progress.

I would like to thank you for taking the time to read this and I very much look forward to hearing from you.

Many thanks,

Claire Sheerin

• My interests and hobbies are part of my personal relationship with all students. I am a keen runner and regularly run half marathon races, charity runs and in turn have set up a ‘Teachers on the track’ club at my current school. I am also a member of ‘Liverpool Irish Rovers’ running club in Liverpool, a social running club whose aim is to provide a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity for individuals to achieve their running potential. I am a member of my local GAA club in Liverpool and play for our Ladies Gaelic football team. GAA is something that I have brought into my current school as a means of creating a more inclusive approach to sports. I set up a World Sports Day, whereby students in different year groups played in a Hurling and Gaelic Football tournament. This was greatly received by students, parents and the wider staff. Additionally, I am passionate about fund raising for those less fortunate in our local communities. Working in one of the most deprived areas of the North-West, I regularly campaign for foodbank collections within and outside of school. Often, I personally deliver food supplies and essential items to our local families in need. During advent I organised a ‘Donate your Winter Woolies’ drive for the homeless during form time, whereby students and staff donated hats, scarfs and gloves to people living on the streets of Liverpool. This opportunity enabled me to encourage pupils to play an active and responsible role in society, allowing them to develop as global citizens and to use their talents to help others.