Life of a Teacher

The days in the Life of a teacher: Tales from the classroom 📝✨

Completing the three days in the "Life of a Teacher" was definitely a challenging but rewarding experience. It provided me with an opportunity to step into the shoes of a teacher, take on various responsibilities, and apply the knowledge and skills I have gained during my teacher training. I managed to cope by staying organised and focused on each task at hand. It was a great opportunity to put my skills into practice and learn how to handle different responsibilities.

Managing the three days as a teacher was both challenging and rewarding. It was a real test of my ability to plan, organise, and deliver effective lessons. I had to ensure that I maintained control in the classroom, adapted to unexpected situations, and met the needs of the learners. In the beginning, I was a bit nervous and overwhelmed, but as the days went by, I became more confident and comfortable in my role. The support and guidance from the mentor teacher and the school staff were invaluable in helping me navigate these challenges.

Taking on all the responsibilities of a teacher in Block 1 compared to Block 2 was a significant step forward. In Block 1, I rated myself as "developing" in most of the competencies. However, as I moved into Block 2, I could see a noticeable improvement in my abilities. I felt more confident and capable, knowing that I had already gained some experience and knowledge from the previous block. It allowed me to take on a more active role in planning and executing lessons. The experience of “Life of a teacher” in Block 1 served as a strong foundation for Block 2, where I could build upon what I had learned.

Among the activities, I found managing the classroom and maintaining a calm and focused atmosphere during transitions to be the most challenging. Managing the classroom effectively, especially in diverse contexts, is a complex task. It requires a deep understanding of learners' needs, behaviour management techniques, and the ability to create a conducive learning environment. However, I overcame these challenges by implementing clear routines, using positive reinforcement, and establishing clear expectations for behaviour. Building positive relationships with the students also helped create a conducive learning environment.

In terms of my self-evaluation survey, I rated myself highest in understanding the school curriculum and maintaining a positive work ethic. Through the "Life of a Teacher" experience, I have improved these competencies by incorporating more interactive and student-centered activities, implementing effective classroom management strategies, and refining my lesson planning skills.

Looking at the exit level outcomes and the final comments from my mentor teacher, I can see the growth and progress I have made. The initial self-evaluation I completed at the beginning of my teaching experience highlighted areas for improvement, and I am proud to say that I have addressed these areas through reflection, feedback, and continuous professional development. Completing the "Life of a Teacher" has been an invaluable experience for me. It has solidified my passion for teaching, enhanced my teaching competencies, and provided me with a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and challenges teachers face on a daily basis. I am excited to continue growing, learning, and making a positive impact on the lives of my future students.

Thank you

- Nabihah Hassein Mahomed

- ST10122413