Case study: Mollie Nichols

Mollie Nichols, 28, is a former student of Ormiston Venture Academy, where she is currently completing her training and has secured her first teaching role. She studied at East Norfolk College and obtained a degree in Inclusive Practice and Integrated Working from the University of Suffolk, which aligns well with her current role.

Mollie found inspiration from another trainee who completed The OAKS Norfolk course, giving her the confidence she needed to pursue teaching. She chose mathematics because she loves its clarity – there’s always a right answer, but it’s about finding different pathways to reach it and demonstrating that maths is accessible with the right tools.

Mollie opted for the PGCE route advertised by The OAKS Norfolk, trusting in Ormiston Venture Academy and the course provision, and she has much praise for The OAKS Norfolk for the many layers of exemplary support they provide throughout the course.

Every day, Mollie feels she makes an impact by making challenging concepts accessible and appealing to students, leading to their success. She enjoys witnessing the ‘light bulb moment’ when a student realises a task is achievable.

In the years to come, Mollie aims to be the best teacher she can be, continuously enhancing her knowledge and going above and beyond for her students. She sees herself overseeing student achievement to ensure overall progress, using her experience as a Raising Achievement Mentor to impact a wider circle of students.