Case study: Alexandria Yeardly

Alexandria Yeardley, 24, is driven by an unwavering commitment to support young people during pivotal stages of their lives. Graduating from Cardiff University with degrees in German and Japanese, followed by an MA in translation studies, Alexandria brings a wealth of linguistic expertise to her teaching journey. Her passion for education is rooted in her belief that all students should have access to a quality education, including the study of foreign languages, aiming to inspire a new generation of linguists.

Before embarking on her teaching career, Alexandria cultivated her love for music and languages, playing various instruments since childhood. Inspired by her own positive experiences in school, Alexandria is determined to impart the joy of learning to her students, fostering an environment where curiosity and exploration thrive.

“I always enjoyed being at school, and I want to give my students the joy of learning I had when I was growing up.”

With the increasing importance of bilingualism in the global landscape, Alexandria chose to specialise in teaching German, emphasising the relevance of multilingualism in today’s interconnected world. Her goal is to help students understand the significance of being proficient in multiple languages and to inspire a love for language learning.

Opting for a PGCE route, Alexandria valued the opportunity to further her qualifications while gaining practical teaching experience. Prior to her training, she spent time as a supply teacher and engaged in pedagogy classes to prepare herself for the challenges of the classroom.

In the classroom, Alexandria focuses on building strong relationships with her students, recognizing their individuality and unique strengths. She finds fulfilment in witnessing the progress students make in their language skills, from beginners in Year 7 to confident conversationalists by Year 11.

Alexandria chose The OAKS for its unique opportunities, including specialised training in her chosen subject and experiences such as outdoor education and additional qualifications like Level 1 in Team Teach.

With a passion for inspiring future linguists, Alexandria aims to contribute to making the UK a nation of polyglots. In 5-10 years, she envisions herself teaching in a school where students are eager language learners, embarking on their linguistic journeys with enthusiasm.