Reflecting on the Who and the Why

Mum First
                  
First and foremost I am a mum.  My daughter is my number one priority. My daughter, Inez has had a profound effect on who I am as a person and especially who I am as a teacher.  I had no idea what she would add to my perspective as a teacher.  I had no idea the insights she would bring.  

I empathise when I hear mothers arguing with stroppy daughters outside my room because I’ll admit, in my pre Inez years, I use to feel superior.  I use to think, be consistent don’t let her get away with that attitude. Give her consequences. Don’t let her boss you around. 

Those days are gone. I know my daughter rules our roost and now I steel myself for battles which I've already lost. Now I recognise my comrades and I smile to those other sleep deprived parents who like me are slaves to cherished tyrants.     

A Trip Down Guilt Lane
Teacher guilt vs mommy guilt
Mother's Day and Teacher Appreciation Day
A letter in defence of teachers

Finding the WHY

Like many people I have that teacher who made me feel important. I can’t remember most of what I learnt in primary school but I remember LOVING school.  I felt safe.  I felt valued and I was happy.  I cannot guarantee that my memory at 45 is accurate but I don’t think that that actually matters.  What matters to me is that feeling that at school I was happy, I was safe and that I was valued.

According to Simon Sinek's model of The Golden Circle 'why' should be at the core of what we do. The 'why' should be our driver. For me, the 'why' is about creating a safe place where learners can explore, examine, make mistakes, discover, have a go and take risks.

In the Classroom
I can say that coming to school has ceased being about coming to work.  This year teaching doesn’t feel like work.  Yes, my class is amazing! When I talk, they look at me and they listen – what a novel experience.  They are ready to learn  . . . and therefore they learn.  They are engaged and so am I.  

Teaching approach and style

This year I am in Room 15.  Room 15 is a 1:1 digital classroom with 31 Year 5s and Year 6.  My school is a contributing primary finishing at year 6.  We are at the senior end of our 600+ school.

Late last year my principal whispered in my year, “Have you thought about attending Mind Lab?”  I hadn’t but here I am now finished the Certificate in Applied Practice (digital and collaborative learning).  Besides my daughter, the Mind Lab has had a profound impact on my teaching.  

I lead from a participatory standpoint.  I like to be within rather than out in front.  I love when my students become the teacher and lead the way.  I’m keen to lend support, to offer ignition and to keep things on track with some words of encouragement but I love it when the learner is in control and takes us off on a journey. I want to explore, to go forth into uncharted territories.  I am curious and hope to instill that in others.  I am becoming more comfortable with the unknown.