What does it mean to be a teacher? Vic ECTs share their thoughts for World Teacher’s Day

A number of early childhood teachers from Victoria have shared their thoughts on what it means to be a teacher in honour of World Teachers Day, which is acknowledged in Australia on Friday, 28 October. 

 

In 2022, the theme for World Teachers Day is “hat’s off to teachers”, with teachers from all sectors, including those in early childhood, being celebrated and acknowledged for the great resilience they have shown during challenging times.

 

In honour of World Teachers Day, Australians are being asked to share a “hats off” selfie to celebrate and acknowledge teachers, and to share the impact that teachers have, using the hashtag #WTD2022 and tagging the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Learning – @aitsl.

 

Megan – Early Learning Explorers (Greenvale)

 

“Being an educational leader is rewarding and inspiring. Everyday I’m able to mentor and see the spark in educator’s eyes when working with them and achieving goals. It is important to me that educators have passion and enjoy their work every day. Being an educational leader in 2022 is different from a few years ago, after the pandemic a lot of educators were tired and unmotivated. Now a big part of my role is to uplift and support educators in finding their happy again and remembering why they initially became educators. I am so grateful to be an educational leader, it makes my heart happy every day!”

 

Emma – Yarraberg Children’s Centre

 

“Teaching is a great way to keep learning. I love being a part of children’s learning, growing and discovering. I love the moments I share with children, the songs we sing, the dance moves we invent, the buildings we create, the art we make, the walks we walk and the knowledge and awareness we develop together. ”

 

Hollie – Early Learning Explorers (Greenvale)

 

“My highlight of being an early childhood teacher is working with children that love and respect me. I feel so much pride when I see the children achieving their learning and social goals. Coming out of the pandemic, children have had more anxieties about being away from their parents and I’ve spent much time developing strong and positive relationships with them. Some children still struggle at drop off, but once the day has started and they settle in, we have a lovely day together. I am forever grateful for my amazing and independent children that I have this year.”

 

Zarah – Connie Benn Early Learning Centre

 

“Working as a kindergarten teacher allows me to create safe and predictable learning environments with the children to develop independence and support overall wellbeing. Play-based learning and positive social interactions are the foundations of everything and I enjoy working in settings that recognise and foster individual personalities and personal development.”

 

Selin – Early Learning Explorers (Greenvale)

 

“Being a kindergarten teacher means to be passionate, caring, and enthusiastic. I strive to provide quality care where children are able to explore, imagine, express, investigate and wonder. I believe it is essential to have a strong relationship with families, children, and co-workers so I can make a difference in their lives.”

 

Ebony – Iris Ramsay Kindergarten

 

“I love being able to foster children’s wonder and curiosity within the natural environment, watching them build resilience, grow in confidence and learn to appreciate all the land has to offer. ”

To learn more about World Teachers Day, and to access a celebration kit, please see here.