Celebrating our teachers this World Teachers’ Day

On the 5th of October, we celebrate World Teachers’ Day – a time to honour the dedication, passion, and life-changing impact of teachers who spend every day shaping the future of children and young adults.

This year, we’ve sat down with four subject specialists from across our campuses to tell us more about their career paths and what it’s really like as a teacher.

What inspired you to become a teacher, and what do you enjoy most about the role?

Emily Merricks: Chef Lecturer: “My journey to becoming a teacher started from the positive impact of my lecturers at Capital City College. I had worked in the industry for over 20 years and wanted to pass on my knowledge to the next generation of chefs. I enjoy meeting all the new students and seeing their confidence grow throughout their time here.”

Nike Caines, Lecturer in Sports and Public Services: “I have always valued the importance of education and have fond memories of my inspirational primary school teacher. What I enjoy most about teaching is seeing the moment of realisation on a learner’s face when they grasp something I’ve taught. Learner feedback motivates me, especially when I hear comments such as, ‘I love your sessions’ or ‘I wish I had a teacher like you at school.’ It’s rewarding to see learners grow and develop.”

Maria Rees-Ahmed, Curriculum Manager Hair Beauty Therapy: “I had a great teacher who helped me achieve my qualifications and guided me to become a teacher myself when I didn’t even know it was an option. The most rewarding thing about the role is meeting learners at the start of their journey and supporting them to meet their goals… Seeing them grow in confidence and excel in the skills they learn is priceless.”

Chiranjib Ray, Lecturer in Chemistry: “I’ve always been fascinated by STEM and decided to become a science teacher to generate enthusiasm among students to follow a science or engineering-based career.”

Can you share a moment when you felt you made a real difference in a student’s life?

Nike: “One of my students was living in difficult circumstances and I helped him secure housing, complete his course, and gain his first job as a fitness coach assistant. Earlier this year, he reached out to me on social media to thank me again. Knowing that he is doing well fills me with pride and reminds me of the lasting impact a teacher can have.”

Emily: “A student I taught in the first year came to find me on her last day to thank me for all the time and support I had given her, and for believing in her. Even though I had not taught her for her last two years at college, she still made time to thank me. That was a lovely moment.”

Chiranjib: “An adult student recently achieved a 5-5 in GCSE Combined Science this summer. She was overjoyed with her result and is looking forward to starting her Level 3 Access course and then going on to Higher Education. This is the power of education and how it can transform lives.”

Maria: “I remember one particular student many years ago who was so shy when she started, it took her six months before she communicated with her peers, teachers and clients. The next year an E&M Teacher sent me a note complaining that this learner never stopped talking. I thought of how far she had come and I was proud.”

What’s one thing you wish more people knew about being a teacher?

Emily: “Really how rewarding it is. A lot of time and care goes into giving the students the best education and experience possible.”

Maria: “Although the work is hard, what we do really makes a difference to many learners’ lives, and it is important to be the best role model you can, and to remember we are all still learning. I have learnt many things from my learners, but I am not an expert –  I still have areas for growth and it is important to learn together.” 

Chiranjib: “Teaching is a fascinating career, and we play a crucial role in influencing a young person’s life, both in academics and life skills. Our role extends beyond the walls of the classroom and as mentors and role models we can have a profound impact on a young adult’s life.”

Nike: “Teaching is so much more than delivering lessons. Effective teaching requires adapting constantly and ensuring sessions are engaging and impactful from the beginning. Teachers are not just educators – they also act as organisers, financial advisors, counsellors, role models, and mentors, supporting learners in both their personal development and their career pathways. Teaching today encompasses all of these roles.”

What’s the most rewarding part of working in education?

Chiranjib: “To meet a student in ten years’ time who remembers me and thanks for my teaching and how it shaped their career.”

Maria: “The pride in your learners’ achievements. When learners come to thank you for helping and supporting them achieve their dreams and ambitions is priceless, and it’s always fantastic to see learners progress into the industry or use transferable skills to enter employment.”

Nike: “Seeing a learner thrive when school life may not have worked for them. College offers a fresh start, a chance to study subjects they are genuinely interested in, and to discover who they really are. Watching learners grow into confident, capable versions of themselves is incredibly fulfilling, and each academic year, a new group of learners begins that journey of transformation.”

Emily: “Seeing the students leave college ready for the world of work, having seen their progress throughout their time here.”

If these inspiring stories have reminded you how amazing a great teacher can be, why not take a look at one of the many courses we offer at Capital City College? We have a wide range of vocational, higher-education, technical and apprenticeship programmes, so whatever your interest, we have a course that will help you make your mark. Start your journey with us today.

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