Top 10 ways teachers can help themselves become a success
We all want to be the very best we can be each and every time we step into the classroom, but from time to time, it can feel like we're on an uphill struggle to do so, and everyone can use some help when it comes to being the best teacher possible.
So here we take a look at just a few of the very best tips around that teachers can use to make sure they are the very best they can be every day in the classroom.
Set out clear goals
It can be easier to plan your day to day classroom work if you have a bigger goal in place. What do you hope to achieve from your job in the next year, two years or five years? Set out some goals and write them down for yourself. No one else even needs to see them. The important thing is that you have something to work towards and you know what you're aiming for, helping you work harder every day.
Realise your true purpose
As teachers, everyone has a purpose in their career, to pass knowledge on to pupils and prepare them for their later life. Once you realise this and truly come to terms with what you are tasked with, you realise how important what you do is. This realisation can give you the sort of pleasure you should have from going into the classroom each morning.
Expect success
If you don't expect your pupils to succeed, they won't either. Kids need someone to show some belief in them, and you are their first point of contact. Show kids that you believe in them every day, and push them towards success, and chances are they'll be able to keep pace in no time at all.
Have a laugh
Don't forget that you're working with kids in this career, and they enjoy laughing more than most of us. If someone has a little joke and a laugh in the classroom, try not to stamp it out. Sure, draw the line if it goes on too long, but being seen as that monster who hates laughter will do you no good when it comes to building a relationship with your class.
Don't praise too often
We all want our classes to do well, so when someone does, it's only natural to praise them. However, as teachers, we need to make sure this is always 100 per cent authentic and deserved. Praising every little thing dilutes the impact of your praise, and while it may do a world of good at first, pupils will start to lose respect for your praise if it appears too readily given out.
Be consistent
Pupils work best in a classroom where consistency is treasured, and that starts with you. No one is saying you need to be the exact same person every day, but it's important you don't let private things affect your mood at work. If the kids don't know what you to expect, they will be a bit uneasy and not learn as well.
Communicate
Communicate with pupils and parents alike. If someone isn't doing as well, don't be afraid to tell them where they're going wrong. It'll only help them learn how to improve in the future. Similarly with parents, never be afraid to tell them their kid is struggling - the likelihood is they'll want to help you improve their work wherever they can.
Be adaptable
Sure, your lesson plans are probably spot on and well researched, but you should always be aware of chances and needs to adapt. If pupils are not engaging or not understanding, never be afraid to change what you're doing. It'll help in the long run.
Explore new ideas
You might have been working the job for years, but things change. New technologies, new ways of teaching and anything else new can help. Don't be afraid to embrace anything that can help your job!
Make it fun
And finally, make it fun! Pupils need that authority in their educational life, but they also need fun from time to time. Set aside some time each week to just let the pupils be themselves and open up. They'll have fun, and they'll learn better for it before and after.