Name: Claire Park
Country of Residence: China
Country of Origin: South Korea
Subjects I teach: EAL (English as an Additional Language)
Grades I teach: Y2
Places I’ve lived: Korea, United States of America, England
1. What’s your favourite thing about travelling in Guangzhou?
I like to walk around the city and explore the real charm of Guangzhou. I sometimes just chance my journey by hopping on a bus and see where it takes me. I love walking around the city and it always surprises me with lots of hidden gems. Guangzhou is such a big city and there are always plenty of things to explore!
2. Why did you become a teacher?
Teaching is such a rewarding job. After graduating from university, I became a language teacher and have enjoyed working with young children ever since. It is amazing to watch them grow intellectually and enjoy their learning. It is a great feeling that as a teacher I can influence children to be better learners and explorers.
3. Can you tell us more about your time in the Britain?
I moved to the UK in 2012 and studied Education, acquiring a Master’s degree from Leeds University. It was great to be part of the MA programme, learning more on what I am passionate about and also meeting so many inspiring people in the same field.
When I was in the UK I took advantage of being in such a beautiful country and managed to visit many places, learning about the people and culture. I especially really enjoyed the walks in the countryside in Yorkshire!
4. What is your favourite quote when it comes to education?
I love the quote by Martin Luther King; “Intelligence plus character-that is the true goal of education.” Education is not just about transporting the knowledge from one to another. Everyone comes from different places with different characters and these factors must be taken into account when ‘teaching’. As a teacher, my goal is to understand learners’ individual characters and their background and help them to think more critically. When learners become critical thinkers, who can apply their knowledge in a more effective way, then the education they receive becomes more meaningful.
5. What advice would you give to new students starting at our school?
Be open-minded and never give up. Learning never ends, it is a lifelong journey so enjoy the paths of learning. The BSG is a very special place that makes learning fun!
6. Tell us something interesting about yourself.
I enjoy taking photos when I have free time. My hard drive is full of photos I have taken over the last few years! Once I seriously thought about changing my career when my photo was selected and printed in a magazine!