E10: Peter and Gwenda Johnson: SAF Tips, Tone and Job Seeking Skills and The Human Experience of Applying For Jobs

The Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast

In episode 10 of the Growth in Educational Leadership podcast, I welcome Peter and Gwenda Johnson to discuss their vast experiences in education and career development. Peter shares his journey from teaching to becoming a director at Job Care, emphasising the importance of hybrid learning and adaptability.

Gwenda is a former school principal and she shares her path in special education and offers valuable advice for job-seeking teachers, such as the importance of the tone in a job application and important circulars to read before applying for jobs.

A thoroughly enjoyable chat and visit back down memory lane for me - I enjoyed opening the conversation about the vital role of networking, continuous skill development, and the resilience required to navigate the job market. Together, Peter and Gwenda provide nuanced perspectives bridging the worlds of education and industry.

Learn more about Jobcare here.

PODCAST OVERVIEW

• 00:06 Introducing the Guests: Peter and Gwenda
• 01:31 Peter's Career Journey
• 03:03 Impact of COVID on Job Care
• 05:15 Gwenda's Career Path
• 13:11 Challenges for International Teachers
• 18:34 Importance of Tailoring Applications
• 23:17 Interview Preparation Tips
• 26:25 The Importance of Remembering Your Contributions
• 27:11 Key Qualities Employers Look For
• 28:21 Handling Interview Challenges
• 28:48 The Role of Ethos in Schools
• 31:04 Preparing for Leadership Interviews
• 32:16 Dealing with Rejection and Building Resilience
• 38:56 Future Skills for Job Seekers
• 47:46 Networking and Building Connections
• 52:55 Final Thoughts and Advice

Jobcare, bio
Jobcare is a small Dublin-based not-for-profit with a big footprint, whose mission is to equip unemployed people with the skills, knowledge and confidence to overcome barriers and secure appropriate work. We provide free courses for jobseekers - a four-week essential Jobseeking Skills Course and a seven-week Jobnet programme for unemployed professionals and graduates. Jobcare is currently not state-funded but relies on the generosity of individuals, organisations and businesses to support us in our mission. Our services are enhanced by an enthusiastic and talented volunteer group from companies large and small who give of their time generously to support our clients.
Peter Johnson, bio
Peter graduated from TCD in 1978 with a degree in Natural Sciences. He spent the first 15 years of his career as a Geography and Science teacher in Mount Temple Comprehensive School. Following 5 years in the Second Level Support Service he joined the NCCA as a director of Curriculum and Development, with responsibility for Junior cycle and Transition Year. He joined Jobcare in 2010, as Job Club Leader, and worked there until his retirement in 2018. Since then, he has been a volunteer with Jobcare, continuing to develop and deliver programmes for jobseekers. As well as being a Jobcare board member and regular speaker, he now runs an innovative weekly programme for jobseeking professionals called Kickstart
Gwenda Johnson, bio
Gwenda graduated from TCD in 1982 with a BEd degree. She taught for 5 years in a mainstream primary school before taking a break to care for her young family. Before returning to full-time work in education, she worked as a sub teacher in a local mainstream school and did some part-time work with NCCA on Irish language documents. In 2008, she got a job as a special class teacher in St Joseph’s, a special school for children with visual impairment. In 2014, she became Principal there, managing a staff of 50, and retired in August 2023.