Vision

Teaching is more than just a profession; it's a vocation, a calling that requires passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of young minds. As educators, we are tasked with the profound responsibility of shaping the future. Our actions, words, and attitudes directly influence the next generation. And don't get me wrong, I know that sometimes we are very tired, other times we are fed up, it's a lot easier said than done to always make a positive impact. However, this needs to be the motivating factor: we are shaping young people's lives! Our individual vision needs to be based on this idea, and it needs to be the foundation of our teaching practice.

Here are some examples of visions in teaching, which I have used at different stages of my career so far.

1. This classroom is for Student-Centred Learning: We should prioritise student engagement and active participation. Lessons should be designed to be interactive, encouraging students to ask questions, explore concepts, and collaborate with peers. Displaying a clear learning objective, giving students some resources, and getting them to present their findings in the second part of the lesson can work wonders for engagement. Show your enthusiasm and curiosity, model this to your learners.

2. We have a Growth Mindset: We are here to learn, so we will sometimes fail and learn from it. Make it clear that it is okay to give a wrong answer, and follow up on this vision with giving constructive feedback. A "that's not quite accurate, but I see your point" can work wonders. Encourage students to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. This approach helps students develop resilience and a love for learning.

3. No one gets left behind: Every student, regardless of their background, deserves an inclusive environment where they feel valued and respected. I celebrate diversity and strive to create a classroom culture that honours different perspectives and experiences. For example: make it clear to the learners that it is essential that we keep a respectful working environment, so that everyone can learn. Making noise during a lesson is unfair to those who need a quiet environment, and it is a responsible behaviour to follow instructions regarding either working in silence or keeping the volume low. Tell students about this - tell them they are responsible for one another!

A Visible Reminder

To keep myself accountable and to remind my students of our shared journey, I display my teaching philosophy in a visible area of my classroom. This serves as a daily reminder of the values and principles that guide my teaching. It reinforces the idea that we are all partners in the learning process and that together, we can achieve great things.

Show That You Care

Ultimately, showing that you care is the most important aspect of teaching. It's about demonstrating through your actions that you are invested in your students' success. It's about being present, attentive, and empathetic. It's about celebrating the small victories and being there to support them through the challenges. By showing that you care, you make your students feel valued and inspire them to care about their own learning journey.

The Impact of Our Actions

As teachers, our actions define the next generation. Every lesson taught, every word spoken, and every gesture made can leave a lasting impression on our students. By embracing our teaching philosophy and staying true to our guiding principles, we can ensure that we are making a positive and meaningful impact on the lives of our students. Remember, the job we do is special, and through our dedication and passion, we have the power to shape the future.