The Assistant Principal at Smith’s Wood Academy, has shared her route into teaching and leadership as part of an inspirational promotional film highlighting the Early Career Teacher (ECT) Programme.
Although stepping in front of the camera was outside her comfort zone, Joti Odedra was keen to take part to showcase both Smith’s Wood Academy and the support available to teachers at the very start of their careers.
“The camera operator and director were here from the moment I put my bag down at 7am until I drove off site at the end of the day,” said Joti, who is also the academy’s ECT Induction Tutor.
“It was very intense, but I wanted to get the school’s name out there. We’ve changed so much and I want people to see that leadership is exciting and that we are passionate about doing the very best for our children.”
Joti’s story is a powerful example of career progression within the Trust. Having joined Smith’s Wood Academy as a trainee teacher 12 years ago, she has gone on to become Assistant Principal and now helps develop the next generation of teachers.
Last year marked the academy’s first successful year mentoring Early Career Teachers following its improvement journey, making the film an opportunity to showcase the impact that strong mentoring, collaboration and professional learning can have on both colleagues and students.
“Our ECTs speak highly of the support they receive and two of them actually feature in the film,” said Joti.
“We don’t just deliver the statutory programme. We go above and beyond with additional sessions focused on applying their training to Smith’s Wood, so it’s not generic.”
The film also features a school in Devon, providing an interesting contrast between two very different communities united by the same commitment to education and young people.
As an advocate for greater representation of Asian women in senior leadership positions, Joti welcomed the opportunity to be part of a project that celebrates diverse leadership in schools.
Reflecting on her career, she said her motivation has evolved over time.
“When I first got into teaching, it was all about science. I wanted to make my subject exciting and spark enthusiasm in young minds. As the years have gone on and I’ve taken on leadership roles, it’s become more about the children, their wellbeing, their academic success and helping them value education.”
When asked what she loves most about the profession, Joti points to the people.
“It’s the children and staff that make this place. No two days are the same and whatever challenge you face, you approach it with compassion and professionalism.
“Looking after ECTs is incredibly rewarding because teaching is so powerful. Teachers are in a unique position to shape young minds and make a lasting difference to their communities. If you want to play a part in making the world a better place, there is no better place to do it than a school.”
A huge well done to Joti, whose passion for teaching, pride in Smith’s Wood Academy and appreciation for the colleagues who have helped shape her career shone through so authentically in this film.
You can watch it here