Rachel Lancaster
Lancaster,Lancashire
Summary
Experienced educator with expertise in delivering vocational qualifications, including WJEC Level 1/2 Vocational Award in IT, BTEC Level 1/2 Creative iMedia Production, and NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Child Development and Care. Demonstrates strong subject knowledge and proficiency in guiding learners through digital applications, media production, and child development coursework. Skilled in differentiating content to meet diverse learner needs while fostering practical IT skills, creative media competencies, and understanding of child care principles. Committed to supporting learner progression into further education or employment pathways.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Head of Computing and Childcare
Irlam and Cadishead Academy
Salford, Manchester
2008.09 - Current
- Tailored teaching methods to individual needs, ensuring an inclusive learning environment.
- Participated in professional development sessions for updated teaching methodologies.
- Cultivated strong student relationships through genuine interest in personal growth and achievements.
- Organised after-school clubs to enhance participation in Esports and Coding activities.
- Implemented effective classroom management to foster a positive learning atmosphere.
- Regularly communicated with parents regarding performance and behaviour updates.
- Offered Btec Level1/2 Creative Media Production and NCFE Level1/2 Technical Award in Child Development and Care.
Head of Year
Irlam and Cadishead Academy
Salford, Manchester
2014.07 - 2024.08
- Delivered strategic leadership and pastoral oversight for year group, promoting high standards in behaviour and academic progress.
- Monitored pupil wellbeing and progress, utilising data to identify underachievement and implement interventions.
- Led behaviour management initiatives, applying school policies to support pupils with special educational needs.
- Acted as safeguarding lead for year group, collaborating with safeguarding leads and external agencies.
- Built relationships with parents and carers to facilitate communication and collaborative problem-solving.
- Supported teaching staff with pastoral insights, contributing to personalised support strategies.
- Delivered assemblies and PSHE sessions to foster resilience and positive school culture.
- Managed transitions between key stages, ensuring effective induction and continuity of support.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology with Business Management Studies
St. Martins
Lancaster 2004.09 - 2007.07
PCGE Secondary - IT
University of Cumbria
Lancaster 2007.09 - 2008.06
Skills
Teaching Subject Knowledge:
Computing
I have strong subject knowledge of the WJEC Level 1/2 Vocational Award in IT, including the delivery and assessment of core units such as digital applications, data handling, cybersecurity awareness, and the effective use of hardware and software in vocational contexts I am confident in supporting learners to develop practical IT skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, and safe online working practices, while embedding digital literacy, problem-solving, and employability skills I understand the vocational assessment structure, learning outcomes, and grading criteria, and I am able to differentiate content to meet the needs of a wide range of learners, ensuring accessibility, engagement, and progression I have taught this specification since September 2022
Creative iMedia
I have strong subject knowledge of the BTEC Level 1/2 Creative iMedia Production qualification, including the planning, creation, and evaluation of digital media products I am confident in delivering core and optional units covering media pre-production, digital graphics, interactive media, audio and video production, and the effective use of industry-standard software I support learners to develop creative, technical, and vocational skills, including storyboarding, asset creation, file management, and applying design principles to meet client briefs I have a clear understanding of BTEC assessment requirements, learning aims, and grading criteria, and I am experienced in guiding learners through assignment-based work while differentiating to meet a range of abilities and supporting progression into further study or employment I have taught the new specification since September 2024
Child Development and Care
I have strong subject knowledge of the NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Child Development and Care, including child growth and development, the physical, intellectual, emotional, and social needs of children, and the importance of providing safe, stimulating, and inclusive care environments I am confident in delivering both theoretical and practical elements of the qualification, supporting learners to understand child development from birth to early childhood, the role of play, and the responsibilities of carers in promoting health, safety, and wellbeing I have a clear understanding of NCFE assessment requirements, learning outcomes, and grading criteria, and I am experienced in guiding learners through coursework, observations, and reflective tasks, differentiating learning to meet a range of abilities while supporting progression into further education or childcare-related pathways I have taught the new NCFE specification since it was first launched
Certification
NPQML
NPQSL
Timeline
Head of Year
Irlam and Cadishead Academy
2014.07 - 2024.08
Head of Computing and Childcare
Irlam and Cadishead Academy
2008.09 - Current
PCGE Secondary - IT
University of Cumbria
2007.09 - 2008.06
Bachelor of Science - Information Technology with Business Management Studies
St. Martins
2004.09 - 2007.07