Trainee Sociology Teacher - Sonia
Partnerships Co-ordinator
About Profile
About Sonia
Sonia is applying to train as a secondary Sociology teacher. She holds a BSc in Sociology and an MSc in International Development with Economics. Her academic background is supported by three years of secondary teaching experience in Shenzhen, China, where she taught English Language and Literature to middle school students.
Sonia demonstrates strong communication skills, confidence working with young people, and a reflective approach to professional development.
Strengths
Strong academic foundation in Sociology
Sonia holds a Sociology degree from the University of Surrey, where she achieved a 2:1 classification. During her degree, she completed a study abroad programme at the University of Maryland, College Park, studying modules including:
- Social Stratification and Inequality
- Sociology of Law
- Political Communication
Her academic background supports her understanding of key sociological themes relevant to secondary teaching.
Experience teaching secondary-aged students
Sonia taught English Language and Literature in Shenzhen from 2022 to 2025, including delivery of the College Board Pre-AP English Literature programme to Grade 9 students. Her teaching experience demonstrates:
- lesson planning,
- curriculum development,
- classroom communication,
- and experience supporting analytical discussion.
She also developed a guided reading curriculum for Grade 7 students to strengthen literary analysis and deep reading skills.
Strong communication and discussion skills
Sonia’s experience teaching analytical writing and argument construction transfers well to Sociology teaching. She demonstrates the ability to encourage students to:
- question assumptions,
- analyse evidence,
- and discuss ideas critically.
Her example of leading discussion around rhetorical appeals and youth unemployment reflects an ability to connect classroom learning with wider social issues.
Commitment to wider school life
Sonia has contributed beyond the classroom through:
- organising an English Arts Festival,
- judging student business competitions,
- and previous student leadership roles at university.
At the University of Surrey, she served as:
- Sociology course representative,
- student review panel member,
- and President of UNICEF on Campus Society.
These experiences suggest confidence, organisation, and willingness to contribute to school communities.
Reflective and professional attitude
Sonia presents as reflective and open to development. She demonstrates awareness of the importance of inclusive teaching and creating engaging learning environments for students.