The Crossover: Planning, Reflection, and Creativity

Throughout my photography degree, I’ve managed creative projects from the initial idea, all the way to the final image - planning shoots, adapting as things changed, and reflecting on the outcome. I’ve learned that creativity thrives on structure and flexibility working together. Just as important as the idea itself is the ability to step back, honestly assess your work, respond to feedback, and improve it with purpose.

Primary teaching can benefit greatly from these reflective practice and project planning skills. Planning lessons with clear learning outcomes is like planning a shoot - you need a vision, but also the ability to adapt in real-time. Good teaching, like good photography, is rarely perfect the first time. it’s shaped through thoughtful reflection: what worked? What didn’t? How can I make it better next time?

Reflection is also something I would like to encourage in my future pupils. Helping children recognise their own progress, think about what they’ve learned, and build confidence from it is a powerful part of education. Learning to reflect allows children to observe how they have grown over time, just like reviewing a set of photos.

My background in photography has given me a practical, creative approach to both planning and self-evaluation - skills i’m exciting to carry with me into a classroom.