In 1981, I was coming to the end of my compulsory education, and about to embark on the world of work – I was yet to realise that it would lead to a career in teaching. When I belatedly chose to become a teacher, I was largely oblivious to politics, educational history, theory, or policy. A desire to work with children and to help them achieve motivated me. I was totally unaware that the vocation I had chosen would cause me to compromise and distort these noble but simplistic intentions. I had no inkling that through steadfast adherence to institutional standards and expectations, I would lose something of myself in the process.
👇 WANDER – PAUSE & PONDER… on any stimuli that catches your attention:
· How does my narrative resonate with your own journey into teaching, regardless of whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out?
· What are the noble intentions that drive your career in education? How have they evolved or remained constant over time?
· In your experience, how have you balanced your passion for teaching with the demands of the educational system and its standards?
· Can you recall a specific moment when you felt the need to compromise your ideals in the pursuit of your teaching career? How did you navigate it?
· How has your understanding of politics, educational history, theory, or policy influenced your approach to teaching and the compromises you've had to make?
· What advice or insights would you offer to new teachers who are just beginning their journey and may be unaware of the complexities that lie ahead?
