Training for a marathon alongside teacher training

Training to become a teacher through the East of England SCITT programme has been an incredible journey, filled with challenges, rewards, and many valuable lessons. As someone living with multiple sclerosis, a mum to young children, and an ultra-runner training for the London Marathon, this journey has been anything but easy. But through it all, the SCITT programme has given me the flexibility, support, and community I need to pursue my passions and achieve my goals.

As an ultra-runner, training for the London Marathon has been a top priority for me. Running has been an essential part of my life, providing me with a sense of accomplishment, improved physical health, and a way to manage my MS symptoms. But fitting marathon training into an already busy schedule that includes teacher training and raising young children has been a challenge.

However, the East of England SCITT programme has been incredibly supportive of my passion for running. Through a flexible school-based approach, I have been able to manage my time effectively and balance my training with my other commitments. The SCITT programme has also provided me with a supportive community of fellow trainee teachers who understand the challenges of balancing multiple commitments and have been a source of encouragement and inspiration.

Living with MS can also require frequent hospital appointments and treatments, and it’s essential that I have the time and flexibility to manage my health needs alongside my other commitments. Fortunately, the SCITT programme has been understanding and accommodating of my health needs, allowing me to attend appointments and treatments without worrying about falling behind in my training.

Raising young children while training to be a teacher and running marathons has also been a significant challenge. But the SCITT programme has provided me with a supportive and understanding community that has helped me navigate these challenges. Through counselling services and disability support, I have been able to manage my MS symptoms while still being present for my children and pursuing my career goals.

In conclusion, training to be a teacher through the East of England SCITT programme while being an ultra-runner, training for the London Marathon, having MS, and raising young children has been an incredible journey. The programme has provided me with the tools, resources, and community I need to achieve my goals and pursue my passions. I feel confident and excited about my future career as a teacher, and I know that the lessons I have learned through this journey will serve me well in all areas of my life.