Graduating from teacher training is just the very tip of the iceberg; it’s not until you wander out into the wild world of classrooms on your own that you can really start to develop your own teaching style.
However, have you ever wondered how the really successful teachers manage it, and what it is exactly that sets them apart from the crowd?
Here are a few pointers on what differentiates a competent teacher and one that is really successful.
Enthusiasm
A genuine love for what you do cannot be replicated; pupils will be able to sniff out insincerity in an instant.
On the other hand, true enthusiasm for both your pupils and your subject is infectious and almost impossible for even the most indifferent pupil to continue to ignore.
Teachers who love their job will make lessons fun, almost effortlessly. That doesn’t mean the content of their lessons will be frivolous, but somehow they find a way to communicate the cold, hard facts in a way which inspires and captivates their pupils.
Think about lectures or talks you have been to yourself. A speaker who bounds onto stage and delivers a high energy presentation is magnetic and a teacher who has passion in bucket-loads will exude the same appeal.
An enthusiastic commitment to continuous professional development (CPD) is also likely to rub off in the classroom with students noticing the skills that less committed colleagues may be lacking.
Consistency
Pupils need to know what to expect and if the teacher is consistent with firm boundaries, children feel much more secure.
This means that any pupil who commits a transgression must be appropriately disciplined, but providing the punishment is not excessive and is deserved and fair, it shouldn’t affect the morale in the classroom.
Pupils struggle with a teacher who is too soft one day and then unexpectedly tough on another. Even if you are strict, providing you are consistent, your pupils will respect you.
Honesty
Children are very astute and will spot any mistakes you make a mile off. Trying to bluff it and carry on is one of the worst things you can do.
Showing your pupils that making a mistake isn’t the end of the world and that it is a normal part of everyday life is actually a valuable lesson in itself, together with the ability to laugh at yourself.
Pupils will admire a teacher who has the confidence to admit they got something wrong and will inspire them to act in the same way.
Recognise efforts not results
Whilst a pupil that is truly talented can be a delight to have in the classroom, it is essential that children feel valued for their input, not just how good they are.
Of course you will want to praise any pupil that creates a wonderful piece of work, whether it is an inspired written story or a beautiful artwork model. However, showing equal appreciation for others who have worked their socks off but aren’t quite as naturally talented is absolutely critical. This will send out the message to pupils that putting effort in is highly desirable and valuable, a key lesson for success in the future.
Empower
The classroom should always be under the control of the teacher, but there are lots of ways children can help contribute to the smooth running of the class.
Allowing pupils to help select future projects as well as contribute to drawing up a list of classroom rules can help engage the children by making them feel truly part of the decision-making process.
Help them to dream
If children grow up with a firm belief in their own ability to shape their destiny, they will have a far better chance of success, whatever their chosen path.
A positive mind-set is one of the most valuable assets anyone can have and inspiring children to hope, dream and believe will make them feel invincible. This kind of secure environment will help your pupils to blossom; one of the greatest tributes a teacher can receive.
Conclusion
Being a teacher is so much more than simply imparting educational material to children. The guardian of young minds, success is measured by how a teacher helps to protect, inspire and develop their charges and support them whilst they grow and learn.
Image credits: fairfaxcounty and robynejay
