Sophie Farzam

A dedicated and adaptable early years educator currently completing a PGCE in Primary Education with QTS, I bring a strong academic foundation alongside extensive hands-on experience across diverse educational settings. With a First-Class degree in Early Childhood Studies and professional experience spanning UK nurseries, primary classrooms, and international teaching in Thailand, I have developed a confident, inclusive approach to teaching that supports children of all abilities and backgrounds. I am skilled in planning and delivering engaging, differentiated lessons, fostering positive learning environments, and promoting holistic child development in line with EYFS and primary frameworks.

Passionate about nurturing curiosity and resilience in young learners, I am committed to creating supportive, stimulating classrooms where every child can thrive.

Primary School Teacher (Reception class) at Finstall First School (2025-09 – Present)

As a Reception Class Teacher, I plan and deliver engaging, play-based learning experiences in line with the EYFS framework, supporting children's early development across all areas of learning. I create a nurturing and inclusive classroom environment that promotes curiosity, independence, and positive behaviour. My role involves assessing and monitoring progress, adapting provision to meet individual needs, and building strong relationships with children, parents, and colleagues to ensure every child is supported to achieve their full potential.

English as a Second Language Teacher (ESL) at Ban Kong Ratutis School (2024-01 – 2024-11)

During my job in rural Thailand, I took on a lead teaching role in a diverse educational setting, delivering English lessons to students across both primary and secondary levels. This experience strengthened my ability to design inclusive, engaging lessons for mixed-ability groups, while adapting to a new cultural and institutional context. It sharpened my skills in planning, communication, and managing varied learner needs, which are core competencies I bring forward into higher education settings.

• Delivered 5 structured English lessons per day to learners aged 6–15 (Primary and secondary level classes), including English language, Maths taught in English and Science taught in English.
• Designed and adapted lesson content for students across A1 to C1 English proficiency levels
• Implemented differentiated teaching strategies to engage and support a wide range of learning styles
• Directed and produced an English-language school play (Little Red Riding Hood) with upper-primary students
• Took an active role in Thai Scout activities, co-leading weekly sessions to support holistic development
• Developed cross-cultural communication and classroom management skills in a multilingual environment
• Collaborated with local teachers and adapted to varied curricula and teaching methods

Early Years Practitioner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery (2024-04 – Present)

Working as a flexible practitioner at a high-quality nursery setting, I support children aged 0–5 across all age groups, regularly stepping into lead roles when required. This role demands confident classroom leadership, rapid adaptability, and strong knowledge of EYFS principles. My responsibilities include supporting learning, maintaining safeguarding standards, and fostering rich, play-based environments that promote early development, which are skills that translate naturally into curriculum planning and teaching practice in further education settings.

• Provide consistent support across baby, toddler and preschool rooms in line with EYFS requirements
• Take on lead responsibilities within rooms, overseeing routines, supervising staff, and maintaining daily logs
• Plan and deliver age-appropriate, play-based learning opportunities to support children's developmental needs
• Adapt quickly to changes in room assignments, demonstrating flexibility and strong communication skills
• Build effective relationships with children, staff and parents while upholding safeguarding and welfare standards

After School Club Leader & Early Years Practitioner at Zahra Childcare Centre (2022-10 – 2023-11)

In this dual role, I led the planning and delivery of engaging after-school activities for children aged 5-12, while also working as a key person in the toddler room during the day. My position required strong leadership, time management, and the ability to adapt practice to different age groups. I managed a team of club staff, upheld safeguarding responsibilities, and contributed to a positive, enriching environment that supported both structured learning and free play.

• Designed and facilitated stimulating after-school programmes that promoted creativity, teamwork, and wellbeing
• Managed a small team of support staff, delegating responsibilities and maintaining safety standards
• Served as key worker for a group of toddlers, tracking development and building strong parent relationships
• Maintained daily logs, supported EYFS planning, and contributed to children's learning journeys
• Held keyholder responsibilities, including opening/closing duties and emergency protocols
• Designated fire warden with responsibility for safety checks and evacuation procedures

Early Years Practitioner at Busy Bees Childcare (2021-12 – 2022-10)

This role began as a college placement during my Level 3 qualification and developed into paid employment after demonstrating commitment, initiative, and strong rapport with both staff and children. I worked across multiple age groups (0-5), supporting children's care, learning, and development in line with EYFS standards. This experience strengthened my practical understanding of early years pedagogy and reinforced the value of reflective practice, which are skills I now draw on when supporting and mentoring others.

• Provided care and education across baby, toddler and preschool rooms
• Supported planned activities, routines, and individual learning needs in line with EYFS
• Built strong relationships with children and families, contributing to a warm and nurturing environment
• Assisted with daily routines including meal and nap times, toileting, and transitions
• Monitored and promoted children's wellbeing and safety at all times

PGCE in Primary Education with QTS – University of Worcester (2025-09 – 2026-07)

BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies – Birmingham City University (2022-09 – 2025-07)

Extended Diploma in Childhood and Education – Level 3 – Kidderminster College (2020-09 – 2022-07)

GCSE in English Language & Literature, Maths, Combined Science, Geography, Media Studies, Business Studies, Dance – South Bromsgrove High School (2017-09 – 2020-08)