I have learnt that on the beginning of my journey when entering onto the PGCE I, perhaps naively, didn't know how much I would learn about 'teaching'. It has always been a controversial subject of the lack of parity between Early Years Professionals (EYP's/EYT's) and Early Years Teacher with qualified teacher status. Although the government had changed the title of EYP's to ETY's (somewhat confusing to separate them from EYT's with QTS!) and the content of the programme, there has still not been any solution to the problem. However the solution is clear for me and it would be to develop a PGCE programme specifically for the EYFS (nursery and reception). I have never wanted to teach beyond the EYFS curriculum and although it has broadened my knowledge of the primary curriculum, as said previously my heart still lies with early years, which is the frustration that many EYP's have had and still have today - correct me if I am wrong! To make clear, at the other end of the spectrum, a Primary teacher would not want to embark on a PGCE for primary AND secondary teaching or beyond into further education, it would seem obvious to choose their desired option in which they do - so why isn't this the same for Early Years?
Any comments and opinions are welcome, however controversial! After all this is just one opinion of an EYP, now with QTS, on my professional journey.
So now it's all over I am currently looking for short term (Early Years!) supply teaching work for the moment as I am due to have my third child in December. Hopefully I will be able to keep up to date with the early years sector and my blog whilst I get ready for welcoming baby no.3 into the world this Christmas.
I wish anyone embarking on the PGCE this year lots of luck, it's a challenging but rewarding time...enjoy every minute! :)