As a History teacher I strive to pass on my thirst for knowledge to the students, to inspire and create a fascination and curiosity about the past. Students should feel engaged with the topics we teach, to enquire and ask questions, to struggle and challenge themselves for what they believe the answer is. I am a firm believer in learning outside of the classroom; students should visit local, national and international places of interest in order to foster a love of a subject, to research it further and inspire them on to university.
I am also a strong believer in creating the correct student learning culture. I agree with Churchill when he said “Continuous effort – not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential”. Developing students with a growth mind-set is key to not only school success but lifelong achievement. Enforcing the message that failure is the first attempt in learning and not to give up is key. This can be done through independent engaging and challenging activities that truly test the learner and the language that we use in the class room.
As well as helping foster a love for the history, I want to be part of a culture to provide students with extended learning opportunities. I have previously lead on character education and believe this is an integral part to ensure the whole child is developed with correct values and qualities. I believe this can be done through extra – curricular experiences like music, theatre and the arts but also through sport. I am a keen sportsperson and have coached school football for a number of years being successful in my time – taking one team to the last 16 of the National School’s Cup in England. I have also assisted with rugby, cricket, hockey and swimming. All of these are key in allowing children to develop other passions of their own and strive through effort for success.