I’m sure your children have a favourite teacher. I did many years ago when I was at school, and my four children did and now my grandkids do. Someone who informs, inspires and influences children.
As a teacher myself, I like to think I am, or have been, the favourite of at least some of my pupils over the years.
I love teaching – most days – and I wouldn’t do anything else for quids. But the ‘quids’ we get are part and parcel of what makes our job seem like a thankless task at times. We have professional qualifications – in my case I have two degrees and an old-fashioned teaching certificate. We don’t really get “all those holidays” if we do our job properly; we have to keep up with technology; we have to keep up with our subject area; we have to prepare classes; and we have to make assignments and write reports. For all that, I defy anyone to tell me of any of my colleagues that we’re overpaid.
But this isn’t a plea for more money personally, although I do hope the State Premiers agree to Gonski.
It is to let you know that sometimes the little things can mean a lot, and that includes recognition for what you do. I think we all feel the same, don’t we?
“Mrs Brown, I loved that class about topological algebra today. Thank you. You inspire me. I want to win the Fields Medal.”* Oh, how I long to hear those words!
I wanted to let you know about the National Excellence in Teaching Awards (NEiTA). They are independent teaching awards administered by the Australian Scholarships Group that have been going for 20 years or so. They’re for teachers across the spectrum of education and anyone is invited to nominate an inspirational teacher or school principal at their child’s (or grandchild’s) school.
The NEiTA spokesperson is Gorgi Coghlan from TEN who is a former Biology and Science teacher. As she puts it: “Teachers make a difference in the community every day – they inspire their students with the joy of learning. Most teachers enter the profession because they love developing and inspiring young minds. To see a student succeed is often the biggest reward for a teacher. But a NEiTA award can be life changing–it helps to encourage teachers, and our children will reap the rewards,” said Gorgi.
Hear hear!
It’s a great way of encouraging teachers to keep going and keep developing with the important work they – we – do. And the more we keep up-to-date with educational trends and changes in practice and with trends in the subject area, the better it is for our children.
Parents, school councils, parent associations, committees of management, secondary student council and community groups are able to nominate great teachers and principals for the NEiTA Awards.
I would really encourage you to think about a teacher or principal you know who might be deserving of a teaching excellence award and to nominate him or her. You can nominate online at www.neita.com.au
* * *
* The Fields Medal is the most prestigious international award for an oustanding mathematical discovery.
__small.png)
