What’s the best part of your job?

All of it. But if I had to pick one thing, it’s that there are pupils who are genuinely pleased to see you each morning.

And the worst?

Marking the GCSE English coursework for 55 pupils.

What do you like about your school?

The management trusts you and lets you get on with things.

Who’s been the biggest influence on your career?

When I was at school, Keith Rivers, the headteacher, put me in charge of the Christmas celebrations. It gave me my first inkling that I’d like to be a teacher. Also my dad. He’s a headteacher and is a great role model. We work in similar ways.

How’s your work-life balance?

Just about OK. I spend a lot of time making resources, but it’s something I enjoy doing.

Best professional development?

We’re a pilot school for Vocational Advantage, a project that looks at ways of integrating vocational qualifications with core skills in maths, English and ICT. We’re also going to be involved in the new diplomas. It’s great to feel you’re helping shape the future.

What’s your ambition?

I’d like to be a headteacher, but also to have a second child. If you want a family you have to be realistic. I’d settle for assistant head.

How have you changed as a teacher?

If I fall out with a pupil, I just forget about it. That’s what they usually do. I used to go home and worry, and wonder what I could have done differently.

Highlight of your career?

The growth of vocational education in our school, and seeing how much pupils get out of it.

What advice would you give an NQT?

Teaching is tough at the start and you have bad days. But it gets easier.

- Katie Eyres, 30, was talking to Steven Hastings.

MY CV

2000: English and drama teacher, Westlands School, Sittingbourne, Kent

2001: English and media studies teacher, Turton High School, Bolton

2005: Appointed vocational curriculum co-ordinator.