Building Confidence to Teach Mathematics: Khizar’s SKE Journey

For Khizar Mahmood, a career in teaching felt like a natural progression. Having spent years coaching badminton, tutoring GCSE Maths and supporting learners in a range of settings, he had always enjoyed helping others develop their skills and confidence.

When he decided to train as a secondary Mathematics teacher through the PGCE programme at Bradford College, he was required to complete a Subject Knowledge Enhancement (SKE) course to strengthen and refresh his Mathematics knowledge before starting teacher training.

Today, as he embarks on his teaching career, Khizar believes the experience has given him the confidence and preparation needed to succeed in the classroom.

Refreshing Knowledge for the Classroom

Although Khizar’s degree is in Accounting and Finance and he had experience tutoring GCSE Maths, there were some areas of the curriculum he had not studied for several years.

The SKE provided an opportunity to revisit key topics and ensure his subject knowledge was up to date before beginning his PGCE.

“There were some topics that I had not gone through since doing my GCSE, so it was useful to go over those and become familiar with them again.”

Rather than worrying about gaps in his knowledge once training had started, Khizar was able to build a solid foundation beforehand.

“It definitely made me more confident in my subject knowledge.”

The experience was particularly valuable because he had not studied A Level Mathematics, unlike many of his fellow trainee teachers.

“Going through all the content and knowing there isn’t a topic I don’t understand has given me the confidence to tackle the PGCE.”

Studying Around Work and Family Life

One of the biggest advantages of the online SKE course was the flexibility it offered.

At the time, Khizar was balancing several part-time jobs alongside family commitments. Being able to study when it suited him allowed him to make steady progress without disrupting other responsibilities.

“It was quite crucial for me. I was working multiple jobs, so I could set aside a few hours or even a whole day when I had the time to focus on the SKE.”

The online format also meant learning could take place wherever he was.

“You could do it at home and even while travelling. It was very flexible.”

This flexibility enabled him to complete the course over the summer while maintaining a healthy balance between work, study and family life.

An Accessible and Supportive Learning Experience

Khizar found the online platform straightforward to use from the outset.

“I found it quite easy. They give you videos showing exactly what to do, which tabs to use and how to complete the activities.”

Whenever support was needed, help was only an email away.

“If I was stuck, I’d email and get an answer to any questions I had.”

Knowing support was readily available gave him reassurance throughout the course and helped him progress confidently through the learning materials.

Building Confidence Before Starting Placement

Although Khizar is still in the early stages of his teaching placement, he already recognises the impact the SKE has had on his confidence.

Standing in front of a classroom requires more than subject knowledge alone. It also requires the confidence to explain concepts clearly, answer questions and support students when they encounter difficulties.

“The SKE has been very beneficial because it gave me confidence in the topics I’m teaching and confidence that I can answer the questions students might ask.”

By revisiting topics and broadening his understanding of the curriculum, Khizar started his PGCE feeling prepared for the challenges ahead.

“It’s given me the confidence to stand in front of students and know that I understand what I’m teaching.”

Looking Ahead to a Career in Education

For Khizar, the most rewarding part of becoming a Mathematics teacher will be helping students overcome barriers and achieve things they may not have thought possible.

“Some students don’t enjoy maths because they find it difficult. I want to help those students build their confidence, understand the topics and feel able to answer questions independently.”

He is particularly excited about seeing students develop their understanding over time and watching their confidence grow as they progress through school.

Looking further ahead, Khizar has ambitious plans for his career and hopes to take on additional responsibilities, with aspirations to eventually become a Head of Department.

Advice for Future Teachers

For anyone considering teacher training but concerned about gaps in their subject knowledge, Khizar’s advice is simple:

“Definitely do it. The SKE is flexible, you can complete it around work and other commitments, and it will help build your confidence before starting your PGCE.”

His experience demonstrates how Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses can help aspiring teachers refresh their knowledge, strengthen their confidence and begin teacher training feeling prepared for success.

Click here to learn more about our SKE courses and teacher training at the Margaret McMillan School of Education.