After completing his undergraduate degree at a different university, Tommy Ellis wasn't sure what came next.
"I'd had a tough three years because I was playing international rugby while recovering from an ACL injury, so it was a difficult time."
Taking a step away from higher education, Tommy spent a year working as a teaching assistant at a SEN school in North Wales. It proved to be a life-changing experience.
"I absolutely fell in love with the place. That's when I realised teaching was what I wanted to do."
Inspired to pursue a career in education, Tommy applied to study a PGCE at Liverpool Hope University. From his very first visit, he knew he had found the right place.
"As soon as I came for the introduction, I fell in love with the University. I really liked the tutors and the students. It felt like a close-knit community where everyone wanted you to do well and become the best you could be."
Throughout his teacher training, Tommy completed placements in two very different schools, giving him valuable experience across a range of educational settings.
"I was a little bit worried before I started because it was a different environment, but I threw myself in at the deep end. I think that's the best way to approach it, and I ended up really enjoying the experience."
Now qualified to teach Physical Education, Tommy has returned to the place where his teaching journey first began. Following a successful interview, he has accepted a teaching role at Ysgol Maes Hyfryd, the SEN school where he previously worked as a teaching assistant.
Reflecting on his experiences in both mainstream and specialist education, Tommy believes the foundations of great teaching remain the same.
"Teaching in a special school is very different, but the main principles are the same. It's about having high expectations, building routines and helping every young person to succeed."
As he begins his teaching career, Tommy is looking forward to making a positive difference in the lives of the young people he supports, returning to the school that first inspired him to become a teacher.
"You have your tough days, but you also have your great days. The great days make everything worthwhile."