It has been over 8 years since I last led a classroom unless you count the lesson I delivered on our trip to India in 2016. I am excited to return and try out the amazing things I have learned over the years.
Having worked in many different environments with the majority being in an open office, there are a number of experiences that I miss, that only a teacher would know about.
Helping a child “get there”:
We all know that each child has unique abilities and at times some will struggle while others thrive. One of the most rewarding feelings that a person can have is to work closely with a child and help them to overcome a particular challenge. The relief, the “eureka” moment, is extremely humbling and one that a teacher gets to experience often.
Being part of something bigger than ourselves:
Very few will argue against the importance of education and the opportunities it provides for personal growth, career prospects and one’s confidence.
As a teacher, you know you have chosen a profession which is recognized as playing a pivotal role in shaping and supporting society. You’re entrusted with the youth of the moment and how they may function as adults (to a degree).
This gives great value and there are many careers that cannot replicate this environment. I could never just leave education, so working within the sector and supporting teachers has still made me feel that at least I’m still part of a great team.
Complete Honesty:
You learn so much about yourself and others. Children tell it like it is. They don’t hold back and in doing so force you to overcome personal challenges and difficulties. Teachers are people who wish to make a better society and teach our youth.
There is always an opportunity to grow as a person, however, I felt the classroom gave this in abundance. Your classroom is in part a reflection of you as a person and how you are perceived by your audience. Classrooms serve as a safe space for learning, collaboration, and emotional connection, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teachers are continually learning and growing as society changes and the needs of children differ year after year.
Fun:
Being a teacher is fun! Never forget that. You get to be an adult and still enjoy the humour of the youth. The jokes, the banter and laughter really make your day. Teachers get to enjoy their creative side by decorating their classroom or being part of the school play.
A school is a cultural hub and one that is truly valuable.
The Classroom Experience
The classroom experience is a unique and essential part of a student’s educational journey. It provides a safe space for students to learn, grow, and interact with their peers and teachers. The classroom environment is designed to foster a sense of community and belonging, where students can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas. The structure and routine of a traditional classroom setting provide a sense of stability and predictability, which is essential for students to feel secure and focused.
In a classroom, students have the opportunity to engage with their teachers and peers in a face-to-face setting, which is crucial for developing social skills and building relationships. The classroom experience also offers students the chance to participate in hands-on activities, experiments, and projects, making learning more engaging and interactive. These experiences are invaluable in helping students to internalize and apply what they have learned in meaningful ways.
Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth
Lifelong learning and personal growth are cornerstones of a student’s educational journey. The classroom experience provides students with the opportunity to develop new skills, explore new ideas, and discover their passions and interests. Through carefully crafted lesson plans and dedicated teaching, students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems, and unleash their creativity and imagination.
Moreover, the classroom environment is instrumental in helping students develop essential social skills such as communication, teamwork, and leadership. These skills are vital for success in all areas of life, from personal relationships to future careers. By providing a safe and supportive environment, teachers play a pivotal role in building students’ confidence and self-esteem, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth.
Experiences Beyond the Classroom
Experiences beyond the classroom are an integral part of a student’s educational journey. Field trips, extracurricular activities, and community service projects offer students the chance to apply classroom learning to real-world situations. These experiences enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, while also allowing students to explore new interests and passions.
Field trips, in particular, provide students with hands-on, interactive learning opportunities. Visiting museums, historical sites, and other places of interest deepens their understanding of the subject matter and sharpens their critical thinking skills. Extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and art, not only foster creativity and imagination but also help build confidence and self-esteem. These experiences are invaluable in shaping well-rounded individuals.
Staying Connected to the School Community
Staying connected to the school community is essential for students to feel a sense of belonging and support. The school community offers guidance and encouragement, which are crucial for academic success and personal growth. By staying connected, students can develop their social skills, build confidence, and cultivate a sense of responsibility and accountability.
Teachers play a critical role in fostering these connections. By providing opportunities for extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and community service projects, teachers help students develop their social skills and build their confidence. Staying connected to the school community instills a sense of pride and ownership in students, which is vital for their academic success and personal growth.
