This story is written with the one thing that I believe is the key that unlocks the door to great teaching and inspired learning – that key is passion.
I would like to write about three teachers who not only inspired my learning but also influenced my life forever!
It was my first day at School – I was five years old and starting kindergarten. As I walked through the School gate – my heart pounding and my child mind full of anxious fears, it was Miss Brown, my Kindergarten teacher, who that day walked into my life and my heart. She smiled brightly, knelt down so that she could see my face, quietly told me that I was going to love school and that we were going to have so much fun together. She then gently took my hand and led me to the classroom where she introduced me to others in my class.
What made Miss Brown an Inspiring Teacher? Her obvious love for what she did best – teaching, and her absolute individual care of each of her students.
Miss Brown had the ability to make every child feel that he or she was “special”. She inspired confidence in the mind of a small child, she somehow turned our weaknesses into strengths and so our learning began and continued as she nurtured, guided, corrected, encouraged and entrusted us with the gifts she had to give – inspirational gifts that captured the mind of a child and that influenced the rest of our learning journey.
It was three years later when Mrs Harvey – Teacher of Grade 3 entered my life. She was very different in many ways to Miss Brown.
Mrs Harvey was older, quite strict – but there was something about her that quietened a room of noisy students the moment she entered. We were not afraid of her, but we did have a sort of reverent respect for her as she asked each of us a question relating to yesterday’s lesson. If we were unsure of the answer – Mrs Harvey always managed to make us feel that we had given her the perfect opportunity she needed to revise for the whole class, something that everyone may not have grasped yesterday.
Mrs Harvey was the one who encouraged us to be the best that we could be – she taught us the importance of taking pride in our work and rewarded each of us with a bright coloured dot – we were all treated the same.
I remember our first classroom open day, organised by Mrs Harvey where parents came to inspect our books – all parents looked at every child’s books so that if there was a child whose parent couldn’t come, they did not feel left out – that was the heart of Mrs Harvey.
I remember I was pigeon-toed and walked with my right foot turned in. It was Mrs Harvey who cared enough to take me aside at every break time, draw a chalk line on the cement in the playground and encouraged me to walk a straight line placing one foot carefully each side of the chalk line as I walked. Little by little under the encouraging eyes of Mrs Harvey I began to walk and run as any other child. As a child I didn’t fully understand – but as an adult I know that it is Teachers like Mrs Harvey who give of themselves to make a difference – Teachers like Mrs Harvey who inspire us so much that we want to keep learning forever.
It was then four years later when Mr Gormley – English Master at High School, entered my life. He inspired me so much that English became my favourite subject. Mr Gormley, even though older and seemingly staid, somehow managed to make what might have been the most ordinary topic come alive through the gift he gave each one of us – the freedom to be creative. With his guidance we directed our own learning, we participated in team debates around topics we ourselves selected. We presented drama plays to the rest of the School, we wrote creative stories which were read out to the class by Mr Gormley himself, in such a way that everyone’s writing was the best.
Mr Gormley was able to intrigue our inquisitive minds so that we wanted to learn more. It was Mr Gormley, who with passion for the subject he taught, inspired us to be the best we could be in both the written and oral use of the English language.
It is inspirational teachers like Mr Gormley who have the ability to help us climb to heights in learning that we never dreamt of reaching. I will be forever grateful.
Please share your inspirational stories of Teachers who have made a difference in your life.
I have been fortunate enough, to have had many effective teachers during my education. One of the best examples I had, was my Year 10 Commerce teacher, Mr DeCroix. Mr DeCroix was passionate about passing knowledge to youth. He was both informative and humorous at times which brightened the classroom with an enjoyable atmosphere. His classes were a highlight of the day both for content and content delivery. I went on, to learn economics and Asian Social studies due to the interest he generated in the classroom, with his teaching and communication abilities. He pushed me in all areas of my learning and made me realize it is effective to create a pleasurable environment to learn in.
When I think of a teacher that influenced me my mind goes straight to one. Miss Mooney. Although she knew how to ensure you got the work done she also knew how to make sure that you were enjoying it, engaged, and actually consuming and understanding the content. Her teaching methods encouraged us to reach deep into our minds and express our individuality and be proud of it. All the meantime we were learning so much without even knowing we had learned so much.
I have great memories of my high school English teacher, Mr Rix. He was clearly very passionate about teaching young people and always made every endeavour to engage the students in the richness of the English language. He encouraged students to read and write about books that they felt a personal connection to. On one occasion, I remember he got students to bring in the lyrics to songs they loved and the class read the lyrics as poems. It was a wonderful way to bring poetry out of the theoretical and bring them to life for a group of young people who could sometimes be hard to reach.
I have fond memories of quite a few teachers from across my schooling years. One whom stands out is my High School Art Teacher, Mr. Young. Mr. Young was everything I would have imagined in an Art Teacher. He had no limits on allowing myself to explore my creative side and bring to life concepts and ideas (albeit sometimes farfetched and crazy) that otherwise would have stayed in my imagination. He had a calm and nurturing demeanor and had the ability to walk into a room and have everyone’s undivided attention and excited anticipation for what the lesson was going to bring.
I often reflect back over conversations he and I had about things such as goals, the future, worldly problems and life itself. He was a true role-model and really helped me see things from different perspectives.
I always admire teachers for their patience and dedication. It’s not always easy teaching people new things. The best memory I have of a teach is that of my sons Kindergarten teacher. My family and I had just moved to a small town and my son started at the local school. My sons teacher was amazing, really held space for him as he started half way through the year. My son was sick one week and was absent from school and she personally hand delivered some books and homework for him to work on if he was feeling well enough. At Christmas time, she gave all the students books with personalised notes. Its the little things that make a big difference. My son felt notice and heard by her.
I have such wonderful memories of the teachers that not only taught me but enriched my life. One in particular stands out for me, my ballet teacher Mary. When I began classes I was a late starter and anxious that I would not meet the high standards of the other dancers. Mary had a way with unconditional positive regard and her support and encouragement soon dispelled my fears and gave me the proverbial wings to fly. Mary would say its not where you start its where you finish! In fact I was the only dancer in the class that actually finished my diploma and pursued a career in dancing. Life lessons indeed!
I had a teacher who presented information in an extremely engaging way, which included asking questions and drawing the requisite content out of the students’ minds. We laughed all day and learnt so much without even realising we’d covered the course material.
I clearly remember Mr. Eggins (year 2 teacher).
His intriguing magic tricks would captivate my attention for him to then speak so calmly.
His patience in his explanation and response stood out. Before a response always a breath, pause, then respond. The response was always filled with 2 or more ways of looking at something.
Mr. Eggins was an amazing teacher & left a great lasting impression.
I have a vivid memory of my Preschool Teacher- Mrs Cook, she had this way of making you feel safe when in reality all you wanted to do was be at home with your loved ones. She was vibrant and joyous in her days but also the quiet calm when needed. When i stop and think, it was her who inspired me to be the Early Childhood Teacher I am today.
My guitar teacher Chris keeps it real
My 2 bosses used to be my teachers, they helped me study to change my career
I now work for them and help students reach their potential
I have been blessed to have had many inspirational teachers, from teachers who taught me maths using songs, to teachers that challenged my values and passions and drove me to dig deeper, the world would not be as beautifully diverse without these great teachers!
mr mitchell, english, instilled my love ofd the arts for ever
I always remember my Literature Teacher from Year 8 and Year 9. So much in fact, that now I, as a grown-up, wish I had appreciated her, her teaching style, and her vast knowledge more back then. However, I can still say that her influence was strong and remarkable enough to still leave that kind of mark in a rowdy teenager that may have only appreciated 60% of what she was offering. Aspects like the tone of her voice or the passion with which she spoke about Latin American Literature made many of her students to look forward to her classes and actually read the books proposed instead of lazily relying on a published summary or asking the good students in the class to help them out with a brief outline of the text. Not that she didn’t know that some students would do this, which is why her tests were a reward for her avid readers, as they knew how to answer complex questions about the texts, and a sort of “reckoning” with those who thought that a lazy outline would save them. That is probably why I used to love them, as I had read the books and knew how to analyse complex aspects of the stories and characters. I still remember that I was absolutely loving the book we had to read for the Term, but when the time came for the essay to be handed out, I still hadn’t finished. I came forward to her and explained that I couldn’t bring myself to ruin the ending of the book just because I hadn’t finished on time, and I would have to ask someone to tell me, so I had the information to finish my essay. Even though I know it was my responsibility to finish everything on time, I am still glad that she understood my “literary predicament” and granted me an extension that allowed me to hand it in two days later.
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Here it is:
I always remember my Literature Teacher from Year 8 and Year 9. So much in fact, that now I, as a grown-up, wish I had appreciated her, her teaching style, and her vast knowledge more back then. However, I can say that her influence was strong and remarkable enough to still leave that kind of mark in a rowdy teenager that may have only appreciated 60% of what she was offering. Aspects like the tone of her voice or the passion with which she spoke about Latin American Literature made many of her students look forward to her classes and actually read the books proposed instead of lazily relying on a published summary or asking the good students in the class to help them out with a brief outline of the text. Not that she didn’t know that some students would do this, of course, which is why her tests were a reward for her avid readers, as they knew how to answer complex questions about the texts, and a sort of “reckoning” for those who thought that a lazy outline would save them. That is probably why I used to love her texts, as I had read the books and knew how to analyse complex aspects of the stories and characters. I still remember one time when I was absolutely loving the book we had to read for the Term. However, when the time came for the essay to be handed out, I still hadn’t finished reading it. I came forward to her and explained that I couldn’t bring myself to ruin the ending of the book just because I hadn’t finished on time and I would have to ask someone to tell me, so I had the information to finish my essay. Yeap, I know, it sounded like a teen student confessing all the illegal methods we could turn to when the time of a test came. Something that I would now, as a teacher, have a serious conversation about with my students now. She listened to my reasons and, even though it was clearly my responsibility to finish everything on time, I am still glad that she understood my “literary predicament” and granted me an extension that allowed me to hand my essay in two days later.
I was always an observer of people and quite creative but also loved hearing stories about peoples adventures. Throughout my childhood and schooling life there have been moments, phrases, life skills, opportunities and challenges that teachers have put forth that has paved the path in my adult life and inspired learning conversations toward my own children.
In year five a teacher named Mr Whatt, which seemed to inspire my dad to invent every dad joke in history regarding his name. He was an interesting teacher with the ability to surprise you. He would do group morning sport from the 1st story over the court yard in front of 100 kids. He would inspire a science experiment that was messy. Although his specialty was Math’s and up till year five was not my favorite at the start of the year, by the end it was a favorite. It was his ability to create options, creativity of subjects and the feeling of success and accomplishment.
In high school life was filled with emotions and hormones but on my 1st and 2nd year I met some inspirational teachers. One was a geography teacher and the other a science. Both not subjects that would normal take my interest but that’s the beauty of some teachers. They go above and beyond to provide you with resources or different ways of looking at things, captivate your interest and inspire you to do your best.
Later on as an adult I called a company called RGT as I was keeping an eye out for jobs and wanted to know the process for becoming a trainer and assessor. I then fell into a part time on the job training position as a training and assessing. It was there I met a lovely lady named Kelly who mentored me with her knowledge. She had the ability to give me words of encouragement and understand that I already had the skills and the knowledge and the exact content of each course will come later. It was there that her quirky way of looking at things made me realise that you can change careers, learn from your experience and make your way in something new or as she would say “fake it, till you make it”.
One teacher that I will never forget is Mrs Power, My year 7 English teacher. For me English was not a subject I put much effort into. Mrs Power noticed this, and took the time to find out what, in my life I was passionate about, which was Fishing, Surfing and writing songs. Mrs Power then used these things I was passionate about, and incorporated them in my learning to increase my interest in class and achieve better outcomes. This is something I did not really think about much at the time, but looking back it is defiantly something I appreciate a lot, and is a standout in my schooling years.
One teacher who stands out for me was my music teacher in Year 11 and 12, Gavin Franklin. He was an absolute wealth of knowledge in the music world who was passionate about teaching and watching his students succeed. At the end of each Wednesday I would meet with him and a couple of other students with our own instruments and have a jam for an hour or so. These moments really stick with me as not only we were continually learning, but also applying our new skills in a way where we could have fun with it.
I was a shy child and very much in introvert, school wasn’t always a friendly place to be. I am a creative mind and found when I was with teachers that shared there passion, they could make me feel like I could do anything.
I had an amazing teacher in Year 6, he would bring his guitar and really inspire us through music. High School a passionate teacher that loved what she taught, made me love maths, (of all subjects) which them made me try harder and achieve great results. Learning allowed me to escape the bullies and be able to live past the trauma that can cause. Thank goodness for great passionate teachers. Now I want to share my passion for my craft, to help the youth of today have fulfilment in there careers.
I had wonderful teachers throughout both Primary and Secondary school. The teachers that stick out in my mind though have been since leaving school. Most recently I attended an Academy over a two week period where I had three instructors. These three instructors exceeded my expectations with their passion for that particular industry. This passion combined with their knowledge was the best learning experience of my life. They were strict with both the theory and practical components of the course however also offered a softer approach at what seemed to be exactly the right time. I will remember those two weeks for many years to come and thank them for their excellent delivery of a mentally and physically demanding course.
When I think of the teachers that have made a difference in my life, one in particular stands out. It was my grade 4 teacher Mr Baker. Mr Baker made sure learning was always fun, he encouraged and was always kind. I really struggled with concentration and confidence when I was in school and Mr baker was incredibly patient with me and moulded me into who I am today. While every teacher I had played a very important role in my growing mind not all of them demonstrated the passion and empathy that Mr Baker did and I will always remember him for the incredible characteristics he displayed on a daily basis.
While I have had several outstanding teachers in my learning life, Miss Askew is by far my favourite. Coming from a small country town there was little exposure to the big wide world. Miss Askew brought an energy to our school that was strongly needed by myself and many other students that hoped for a life in the city and beyond. She was positive, intelligent, worldly, funny and most importantly encouraging. She helped me realise what I was capable of and where I could end up in life if I made the right choices. I am forever indebted to her for her guidance and support.
I was a shy child/teenager who loved art so I appreciated all of my art teachers in high school. They encouraged us to be creative and embraced our weird. The art room was a sanctuary for me to feel comfortable in at all times, it was a retreat during lunch time and/or recess. I also had a wonderful English teacher whom I remember fondly. She told me she was a trained Ballerina in her youth and had moved to my home town from Melbourne. She was open minded and caring of all students at all times.
I have had many great teachers throughout my schooling years but the one who has always stuck in my mind is my 2nd grade teacher Mr O’Shea. He was kind and made learning fun. I remember he had a guitar in the classroom which he used to make up songs about his students and about the activities of the day. I remember feeling excited for the day and so keen to learn.
What a wonderful blog in highlighting the pivotal role that our teachers play. Undoubtedly, the writer would have had many more teachers throughout her schooling life, but these three in particular had left a lasting impression in the writer’s life; illustrating just how profound their words and actions are, no matter how big or small.
I could write a positive story about just every one of my teachers growing up, but I would like to take the time in honouring my history teacher, Mrs Abbott.
Mrs Abbott was my teacher in year 7, 8, then subsequently in year 11 and 12. She was my history teacher that went above and beyond in always making history ‘palatable’ to us. Mrs Abbott always taught us beyond just the curriculum, making us realise WHY we are learning what was presented before us. In year 11 and 12, she also went out of her way in personally giving a lift to school so that I could attend the early morning Extension History classes. I will always remember the day when I had bumped into her at the shops shortly after I had graduated. She was beaming from ear to ear when she told me that I had topped the grade in my HSC modern history exam. Thank you Mrs Abbott for your unwavering devotion to not just myself, but to all of us.
Yes! What a delightful prompt to re-appreciate those pivotal Teachers that nurtured curious minds and inspired a love of learning.
I respected and enjoyed working with almost every one of the Teachers I’ve learnt with and for.
Mr Tansey was a Teacher that spoke to us as young adults, and demanded those that weren’t behaving respectfully to do so: his sense of justice impressed me as an avid Learner at High School.
Professor Flynn inspired me greatly as an adult student.
My best and favourite Teacher at school was my Mum. Always fair, always kind, always passionate! Thanks Mum, you’re the best Teacher!
For me it was Mrs West, my 3rd grade teacher and Mr Ellis my 6th grade teacher. Both were younger teachers, full of enthusiasm and willingness to inspire individuals and the class as a whole.
Mrs West was friendly, patient and always kind, not something I’d experienced previously. She encouraged me to read extra books and learn new skills when I’d finished the work ahead of time – again a new experience as I’d been bored in class in previous years. I was so grateful that a teacher took an interest in me and challenged me to achieve to my level.
Mr Ellis was so full of energy and kindness. We had a table on the wall with every child’s name on it and we progressed up and down based on our test scores. We used to tease one of the weaker students in the class by calling him “Dumb Nicholas” (Omg how awful). Mr Ellis pulled us up on this behaviour and encouraged all of us to support him. By the end of the year Nicholas went from the bottom to almost the top of the table, all because a teacher cared enough to encourage and inspire him. Mr Ellis also used to show us photos from his trips – I’ll be forever fascinated by the Transiberian Railway and it’s definitely on my bucketlist thanks to an inspirational teacher
Long time since I was at school but I was taught by the Sisters of Mercy and they did inspire learning sometimes by encouragement sometimes by fear, but they were respected and at the end of my school I had the skills needed to move on.
For me , it is my Grade 5 & 6 teacher ( lucky enough to have her two years in a row ) Ms. Mulholland.
She was an older Scottish lady , who was described by the junior school as a witch because of her ‘crazy’ hair & long leather trench coat. This statement could not be further from the case. Ms. Mulholland was the best and most inspiring teacher , for both myself and my little sister who followed behind and had her almost 10 years later. Always pushing students to achieve their best , and would push them further in their areas of interest. for me , had me halfway through the year 8 math curriculum before i went into high school which had made the transition more seamless.
My year 3 teacher was the best teacher I had by far. He used to get his guitar out every morning and sing us songs from our song folder. He taught us all of our times tables by song which I have never forgotten as well as taking us on bush walks and having ice cream pigouts.
One teacher in particular truly shaped the way in which I approached learning. My year 5 teacher recognised my passion for literature and regularly had me read out class texts and excerpts from newspapers whilst we were learning how to scrutinise non-fiction (typically news outlets). In year 6 I requested to be in this teacher’s class again.
Throughout the year, it became apparent to my teacher that the texts that we were reading during class were not fulfilling for me as I was reading at a level that superseded that of the rest of the student body. My teacher nominated me as a ‘peer reader’, which entailed supporting younger students with their reading which I engaged in for several months.
After some time, my teacher approached me to provide him with feedback about how I thought the peer reading was coming along, to which I nonchalantly brushed off, stating that it wasn’t a big deal. He responded by saying that “intelligence is not a gift, it is a responsibility,” and that has stuck with me for the last 20 years.
One of my English teachers in high school used popular songs for our lessons. I did not know that learning could be so interesting. Another teacher often took us on excursions for our geography lessons. Both these types of learning experiences cemented information into my memory that were not easily forgotten.
A number of teachers have influenced my life in various ways but a couple stand out to briefly share.
My year six teacher was always gently encouraging but I was happy flying under the radar, just getting on with what I needed to do and getting out of there. I found the work easy enough, however I didn’t consider myself one of the ‘smart’ kids.
One day he called me to the principle’s office for a meeting. I was worried that I was in trouble. The meeting was about my many absences and my teacher went on to say that despite me missing a lot of class time, I was in the running to become DUX of the school, if I could just get my attendance on track. Due to a very unstable home life, this wasn’t to be but his belief in me meant more than he knew.
Another who influenced me in a different way was a high school English teacher. I was struggling with constant debilitating migraines and had started medication with side effects that had a huge impact on my day to day life. This teacher didn’t believe in migraines being more than a bad head ache. She wouldn’t make any allowances or adjustments to the set work.
We had to present a short speech, something I would normally try to avoid at all costs but not this time. This time I had frustration and even anger as motivation. I confidently presented my speech on migraines with references for all information and a fact sheet handout. I don’t feel it changed her beliefs, although she was a little nicer afterwards.
Later in life I’ve had some amazing TAFE teachers who have helped me in so many ways.
As a creative person the teachers that stand out the most are my art teachers in high school who were a bit quirky and always happy to be themselves. They were always encouraging and and supportive of my ideas even when I probably should have been reigned in.
i had heaps of great teachers but the ones that inspired me the most where my year 2 teacher Mrs. Lawrence, she would always take the time to help me and/or anyone that needed a little bit of extra help and it was the way she helped and my high school art teacher Mrs. cuit it was like she was one of us her classroom and her teaching style were so welcoming she just had away of helping you to relax and express her your self, she really was a great teacher.
Throughout my years of schooling there was one teacher whose charisma, teaching style and ability to build rapport authentically and effortlessly made a significant impact on not just how I was as a learner but as a person overall. Mrs Eastop was an eclectic, witty, yet unyielding within her classroom boundaries. It was this fine balance of inspiring laughter and play within the classroom, then so casually peering over her reading glasses to redirect us back to our work. Her lesson plans always tapped into our childlike need for play, whether that be in a team or as an individual, nor was importance placed on winning but participation. She encouraged us to be unashamedly ourselves, and continued to observe our journeys post graduation. Mrs E was generally invested in seeing us reach our full potential, whether that was academic or not, and for that I will always be thankful – because we are more than just a percentage.
There are so many great teachers that have influenced my life! But one teacher in particular, Mr. Heinitz, left a long-lasting imprint on my confidence and identity when I was taking his Advanced Placement English course in Year 10.
Coming into high school, I was a nerdy and unique kid in the marching band that didn’t have much confidence socialising outside of the band crowd. I was also surprisingly smart, but was bullied at a younger age for this and tried to disguise my brainy abilities. When I first entered Mr. Heninitz’s classroom, he seemed like a chill, hippie-type instructor with a long ponytail that was going to cruise us through the AP course. Boy was I wrong! In actuality, he was extremely strict and followed course material that made you think outside the box. He was also big on making us read our English books and plays out loud in front of all our classmates to encourage involvement amongst our peers.
Initially, I was very intimidated by his teaching methods and being forced to speak up in class in front of my classmates. But because everyone was in the same boat, it somehow made it easier for me to embrace my intellect, but I still tried to hide behind a façade of ‘dumb girl’ behaviour. During the course, Mr. Heinitz realised that I was not a ‘dumb girl’ despite my outward deflection and he pulled me aside one day to confront me after class. He said, “Miss Kramer, why is it that you ace my quizzes and exams, yet you pretend to answer questions in class incorrectly or fumble over public readings? You are a smart woman, and you should embrace who you are regardless of your classmates’ ineptitudes. I am placing you in G.A.T.E. (Gifted and Talented Education), so you will not be able to hide behind your social superficiality any longer. Stop pretending, and try harder. You have much to discover without the hinderance of peer pressure.” My jaw literally dropped open, and for the first time in my young adult life, my defenses started to come down as his words sunk deeper into my thoughts.
Once in G.A.T.E., I met similar students (even popular students!) and I learned that it was my own self-doubt and worry that was holding me back. I graduated with top honours and a perfect grade point average, which set me up to choose from any college that I applied for. And if it had not been for Mr. Heinitz’s blunt words of encouragement, I would not be the career-driven, confident woman I am today. Thank you, Mr. Heinitz, for believing in me and giving me courage!
A teacher that influenced my life was my year 1 teacher Mrs Wilson. She was always immaculately dressed and wore red lipstick. She had an amazing presence in the room and young children always related to her and thought she was wonderful. She had a kind voice but was strict which earnt her respect from her students. I always responded well to her teaching and she always made me want to put 100% into everything I did in her class and bought out the best in me. To this day I still see her around and still call her Mrs Wilson ( even though she tells me that I’m now old enough to call her Helen!). I later worked with her sister at the start of my nursing career. She too was kind and patient and had a wicked sense of humour and a great work ethic of which I as a beginning practitioner respected and learnt so much from. Later on down the track when I was facilitating nursing student in the hospital setting I would encourage my students to work with her and they always had an amazing learning experience with her.
Teachers who influenced my life…
As i wasn’t overly studious throughout my early years of education, I clearly acknowledge that i never really gave my teachers the respect or attention that they deserved. I see through hindsight that my attitude really impacted on the relationships i had with my teachers, and in turn negatively impacted on my learning. Having said this though there were a couple of exceptions, teachers that i just clicked with and enjoyed their classes. The first teacher that comes to mind in relation to a positive influence was Mr Matthews my year nine (9) math teacher. Now math was never my strong suit, in actual fact it was the subject that i struggled most with, always in lower classes and finding it hard to comprehend concepts or formulas required to complete assigned tasks or assessments (primarily due to my lack of attention). Not that year though, that year i was engaged, and for the first time ever I felt i was able to comprehend what i was being taught. Within that year under Mr Matthews calm and attentive guidance i developed confidence in my ability to understand and apply formulas and concepts, and this then transpired into improved grades and positive results. I don’t really know what made Mr Matthews different from other teachers, but from this positive experience i then recognised that when i was able to form positive and respectful relationships with my teachers, I was also then able to achieve the required outcomes. Secondly, for me was my first year university lecturer – Mrs Jones. As a mature aged student that hadn’t undertaken any study for many years and never really achieved outstanding grades whilst at school, i was extremely intimidated by the thought of not being able to complete work required to met expectations. Thankfully i was given opportunity to express these concerns to Mrs Jones and her response was something that not only helped me to successfully complete that unit of study, but it also guided me through many other periods of low confidence that followed. Mrs Jones very kindly said to me “we will never test you on things that we haven’t taught you, so if you complete the work assigned, engage with resources provided and ask for assistance when required you will be fine”. These words of encouragement and guidance become a mantra for me for all future studies undertaken and I still remind myself of them today.
I was in my year-4, just changed to new school when I met my teacher- Deepika. She welcomed me in such a way that I didn’t feel I was new. She introduced me to whole class and always helped to speak up, encouraged to participate in any group activities, always motivated me to join the competitions, some of which I won and some I lost. Even when I loose, she always supported me to practice harder and not to loose hoe. She is still my favourite.
The first teacher that ignited a drive in me was my music teacher. She was strict and rigid in her teaching, expecting nothing but the best from every lesson and practice session. However, her words of encouragement, followed with a hard boiled sweet at the end of a lesson (should you have achieved what was required), made it all worth while. She taught me in order to reach the high levels, it required hard work and sacrifice. I will always remember going up on the grand stage to play a solo in the musical centre. A tiny little girl with long plaits, sitting in front of a huge grand piano, in a seemingly massive cave of a hall. However, the feeling of euphoria when I had completed the solo, with no mistakes, was incredible. The happiness was felt in the big hug and smile afterwards from my teacher. The confidence that gave me – that I can achieve anything through hard work has stayed with me all my life.
My greatest influence though in my life was our mentor at work. A very wise, knowledgeable, humble man named Neil Purdon. In all honestly, it would be his years of sharing all that he knows, with the same humble, open clear expression, that has driven me to the enjoyment of sharing all that I know. He became a father figure to both myself and my husband. Encouraging us to set up our own company. Giving us the confidence, with his approval, that we do indeed have the knowledge to share. He was always there to bounce ideas and listen to thoughts, correct our mistakes and offer guidance, until the day he passed away. He continued to share his knowledge with all that would ask for it and go out to farms, until his legs could not walk the many miles. We will be forever grateful to him for sharing everything that he knew, we still, to this day, use many of his tools and theories. And they never fail, 30 years on. Nothing can replace that knowledge.
unfortunately I didn’t have great mentors in school however I was fortunate enough to have found such a great workplace with my boss, she has opened up many opportunities for me within my career, with her always keeping us updated with new courses being implied in the industry and many training session with well educated people. The reason I have started my TAE is all because of her not only has she encouraged me to this this course but all her hard work has inspired me to share my passion and knowledge to help others have the amazing experience that she gave me.
I have had many great teachers during my schooling, all good for a variety of different reasons. In particular, I found my business studies teacher to be particularly inspiring. I initially found school very challenging, however with the study techniques that Mrs J taught me, I was able to make the most of my study time and improve the quality of the study, hence, lowering the need for such a large quantity of study. At the end of my schooling, business studies was my top subject and I managed to achieve a fantastic result. I always enjoyed attending Mrs J’s classes as she was able to engage the whole class in both a commanding/instructive way that is also fun and inviting. From Mrs J and my other teachers through high school, I now have a passion in education and a desire to pass on learning and experience in a subject that I am passionate about. I hope that through my further learning and attainment of my cert IV, I will be able to be as inspirational as Mrs J.
As a young child, I had felt misunderstood often and felt like I was always running into trouble, I would be bullied and then as soon as I retaliated, I would be punished. I was smart, I would do really well academically, but for some reason I was always getting told off even when I thought I was being perfectly well-behaved. Grade 3 was the worst, I knew my teacher really didn’t like me – and I’m sure of it still to this day. But grade 4, everything changed. Mrs Vassallo started at our school and changed my whole perception of others and even myself. She made me feel as though I was an equal, I never felt targeted. As a group, she taught us kindness and how to treat each other respect. Whenever there was an issue, I felt like she would listen to everyone instead of just making her mind up based on one version of events. She taught me the importance of perspective that I carry with me ongoing as I now remember what impact her empathy had on me.
I decided to become a yoga teacher in my 20s but was unable to achieve that goal (financially) until the age of 40. Thus began my career transition from drudgery to life-long passion project. Funnily enough, it wasn’t my yoga teacher trainers that inspired my pursuit of yoga, it was yoga teachers. People who instructed classes I attended as a yoga pracitioner.
In contrast to the representation of yoga that’s popular on Instagram – young beutiful people – the yoga teachers who inspired me MOST are all over 50 years of age. One female yoga teacher who I dream of emulating, turned 82 last year (in 2021). These are people who have chosen yoga as a destination, or perhaps yoga chose them, and share the experiences they’ve encountered along the journey.
It is these three teachers (two women and one man and two American’s and one Aussie) whom unbeknownst to them, helped me to believe enough in my dream to pursue it!
My childhood was one of travel, due to my father occupation, I rarely have the advantage of more than a few years in a single spot, and as such was subject to a variety of schools and curriculums across several countries. This offered both sides of the coin, while unable to establish and develop the long term relationships with teachers and my peers, I was subject to a huge variety of personalities and styles.
There are several teachers that remain poignantly in my mind for their lessons and anecdotes, namely my Kindergarten teacher, Miss Tax, for her patience and empathy towards her pupils, the group exercises where no-one felt excluded, as an only child the lack of social relationships in my youth make it difficult to form friendships in my early schooling.
In Junior High, Mr Smith introduced me to modern commerce and legalism, his express style of discretion and irreverence, yet fastidious attention to detail endeavoured me to the law and stoicism, both of which have given me enormous benefit in my everyday life.
The most important teacher in my life has probably been my father, who long before he begot me, was an high school teacher for most of his early career, and after leaving that occupation, which he clearly loved. continued to channel that love of teaching into his son. He inculcated me with a deep appreciation of english, history and the classics, with patience and a methodical dedication to the reason why things happen, that stays with me to this day.
I grew up in a very small country town. I always struggled to stay engaged with school. I had a teacher in Senior High School who began teaching Computer Studies. We both found I had an aptitude for it, and he fed my passion for that particular subject. He taught me to adapt other subjects to principals of Computing that I still use to this day. He supported me personally and professionally and I have never forgotten him. Subsequently, I have always valued those educators who have a level of care for their students beyond the bare minimum.
My primary school was a very small school, only 60 kids from grades prep to 6 at the time. We had composite classrooms so grades 4,5, and 6 were together. The principal, Mr Henshaw, was also the grade teacher for the “senior” class and he was very passionate about maths. As a result, all the students (nearly all) in the class became passionate about maths. He made learning it fun, there was friendly competition and he really encouraged each student to reach for the stars, and beyond.
During my secondary schooling years, many of the students in my cohort had issues surrounding mental health and wellbeing. I will carry the lessons surrounding the importance of mental health and wellbeing taught by my My English teacher Miss Duffy around for life. At that time there wasn’t huge discussion around mental health like there is today. She taught us the importance of looking out for our mates, self check in’s and its ok and normal to not always feel the best. She was a huge advocate for mental health.
I was never a huge fan of school, so i was very dismissive of any mentors or teachers that did try and help me. So i think the first teacher or for me coach that made a huge impact on me came along when i was 13 years old. I was always a huge basketball fan and played at every chance. I was in a representative side and one day we were fortunate enough to meet Ken. We was a former national level basketball player that was used in the National Basketball League as an import from USA. He had a very different approach to coaching. I found it refreshing to have a coach that had performed at the highest level and then was able to break down every move to its simplest form, then put it altogether to complete a move. We regularly attended training sessions with Ken and we saw dramatic improvements in our skills and also our attitudes. He really instilled hard work but also showing me there was a different way to approach anything. Breaking it down to tiny steps that could eventually come together to perform a big move. i took that approach and still use it to this day
I was lucky throughout my schooling life, to have a lot of positive and inspirational teachers. One that I’ll always remember was my Year 10, 11 & 12 Furnishings Teacher in High School, Mr Pattern. Mr Pattern shared the same passion as his students did, for what he was teaching. It was always enjoyable to attend Furnishing class, and watch our few pieces of timber, grow over the year into a writing desk, a chair or a coffee table of some kind. Mr Pattern would hold voluntary after school classes, for students to attend, simply as something to do, for people who were as passionate as him, to come and work on their pieces. He always wanted the best out of his students, and pushed us to always strive for the best. If something wasn’t right, he would make us do it again until it was perfect. Its traits like this which i feel I’ve encompassed into my life today. Mr Pattern was so good at what he did, that each year students would enter their pieces of furniture into the Victorian Furniture Industry awards. I was lucky enough to enter my writing desk into the competition, which involved a full awards night and sit down dinner. I felt proud to be there representing my school & Mr Pattern, he took a lot of joy out of seeing his students succeed in this way.
Thank you for the question. I’ve quite often thought back on my time at school and always wanted to thank the one teacher who never gave up and is responsible for giving me the start to work in an industry I love and been working in for 32 years now.
From taking her time to encourage things I was really good at and bringing the best out in me, to finding my first job that led to an apprenticeship, even taking her time to drive me to the interview, practicing interview questions all the way.
Her unwavering encouragement and belief in me was something I was and always will be grateful for, putting me on a path to what has been and continues to be an amazing career. Unfortunately I lost contact with her and never got the opportunity to thank her in person and hopefully she understands what a great teacher she was and what a big impact on my life she had. I’d like to think I get the opportunity to pay back the wonderful work she did some day.
I have been very lucky to have had many great teachers during my education. One of the best ones I had was my Year 4 teacher, Ms Parfitt. She picked up on my passion for reading very early on and would often bring me in books that were well beyond the reading level of a grade 4 so that I would have extra books to read at home. She pushed me in all areas of my learning and made me realise it was okay and good to have fun whilst you were learning!
There are many teachers that I have been thankful to have met throughout my life.
My first teacher that impacted me greatly in my learning was my Year 4 teacher Mr Eber. I always had my eyes out for new books and words to learn when I was young and he was very admirable in his teaching. He knew how to handle people with different learning levels as well as understanding that some kids just want to have fun while learning as well. My favourite moments in class was when he created a competition for all us children to learn our multiplications the fastest and we would get a prize. He knew that competition is what makes human nature thrive and compete to achieve to be the best. All the students learnt their timetables from 1-12 within the month, with different learning backgrounds.
Another teacher that impacted me was my Year 11 teacher Mr Ying. He was a soft-spoken gentleman who in his young days was studying dentistry but realised that History was what he really wanted to do. He had so many stories from different eras to tell. He never raised his voice, and we all respected him because of his kind nature.
My teacher now, a morphologist comitted to her work for decades has shown me what true dedication in teaching an individual is. Sometimes I can tell the frustration on her face that she knows I am learning with no background in morphology, but she still pushes me to understand why cells look the way they do. Any mistake I make, she is like why do you make that mistake, does it make sense, question your cell comments. That is currently helping me paint pictures of the animal’s health, and combining a picture, rather than just mindlessly making comments on the cells.
The teacher that has inspired me and push me to better my self was Warren Buttler. He is the only teacher that I remember that would come close to taking the time to understand me and the direction I wanted to take. Without knowing it he realised that the tasks he had set out for me were too easy and created extra challenging tasks for me to complete. The encouragement and drive made me strive to do better and even try and beat his expectations. By allowing me be creative and innovative with my designs I even surprised myself. When teaching I try and use the same approach with my children and students.
Joe was my one of my most memorable teachers, he was my team leader in a previous role. Joe always seemed to know the right approach to any challenge I was having. Joe is the kind of teacher that doesn’t just give you the answer; instead, he would give you enough information and next steps to lead you in the right direction in order to find the solutions myself, whilst still making sure I was always on the right learning path.
He taught me the value of allowing people to learn at their own pace and in different ways (getting things wrong is sometimes a great way to learn!). Joe taught me a lot about the need for patience when teaching others, and to remember that everyone was on their own learning journey.
He also inspired me to develop in to a leadership role, without him I wouldn’t have challenged myself as much as I have. To this day when I face an issue I always think “What would Joe do?”, and that’s the kind of legacy I think a great teacher imparts on someone.
The teacher who inspired me the most was my high school legal studies teacher, Mr Donnelly. He made the effort to develop a personal connection with students and took an interest in my life. He would ask about me which made me feel valued and not just another student. He guided me and encouraged me to be my best and meet my potential. More than being a good teacher, he was a wonderful person. We would Mr Donnelly became a mentor for me throughout my high school years.
The teacher who most inspired me was the trainer who delivered a Cert IV course I was enrolled in, hoping to find a better job. Not only did she guide me, she encouraged me to do the extra mile. Her faith in what I could do and be is what led me to not only a different and better job, it started my career of remote nursing. Not only has knowledge of aged care delivery improved, my knowledge and understanding of different cultures has deepened.
I was fortunate to have some great teachers growing up who made learning enjoyable as they nurtured and supported. I teacher, mentor, guide who has truly stood out for me was David. I had already finished my studies and he was a trainer we had when we started working for the organisation. David was always calm and quite reserved however he recognised potential and encouraged you to follow your dreams and goals. He really believed in you, which was amazing. Through his delivery and manner he showed us you don’t have to be loud or outspoken however a good trait is to be a good listener and encouraged his students to draw their own ideas and conclusions, he only planted the seed but always guided and supported asking the correct questions in which each person was responsible for their own resolutions and learning rather than him just telling you the answers or what to do. Till this day many of us till comment on David being one of the most amazing and inspiring mentors, coaches and teachers we all had. It is thanks to David’s encouragement that allowed me to grow in my work, career and personally development.
The teacher that had the most impact on me and my life was a teacher from my adult education. His name was Mr Gilbey and was taught my Digital Communications class and his teaching, life experience and ability to motivate and inspire young adults was something I hadn’t experienced before. I remember the first class he sat down and asked every student what their major was, what they were interested in and what they wanted to do after university. In the university space, much of discussion and learning is based solely on theory rather than practical experience. His class was tailored around a practical project, where he had linked real local businesses and created the course work, presentation and digital strategy around helping those businesses. His passion was not having students learn theory without learning the context in which it would be used. He also took an inherit interest in each student and tried to map their skills and interests with functions and roles within the group.
My teacher K is my most influential teacher. She taught in a way that was very structured but at the same time encouraged me to find my own individual expression and my own way to connect to the content that she taught. When I didn’t understand something she encouraged me to ask questions and explained the content in a different way until I did understand it. She cared about me and held space for me throughout my learning journey.
Miss Sharrot, was my year 1 teacher and again in year 3. We lived in a small village and she inspired with amazing stories and speaking to us as if we were grown. I struggled learning to write left handed in a school with only right handed people she went and bought me a box of triangular pencils to help, sounds small but i still remember the excitement of finally being able to do what my class mates could. We still exchange Xmas cards 27 years later!
Thinking back I was so lucky to have several supportive and caring teachers who inspired me over my school years.
I had a passionate English teacher in high school named Mr. Bell who had all of his students eating out of his hands. He was very captivating and maybe slightly bonkers but in a great way!
I also had a food tech teacher who guided me through high school and even helped me get my first traineeship in a five star hotel. I graduated in 1996 and we are still close friends to this day.
I had many wonderful teachers throughout my school years, but my first teacher, Miss McKee, was the one who first inspired me to be a teacher myself. She clearly had such love for her students and for teaching. She was a soft spoken and very kind woman, but she could be firm when needed. I had her from kindergarten to half way through year 3 (I was attending a small school at the time) and then we moved to a bigger town, but even after the move I never forgot her. In high school one teacher stands out in particular, Mr Crooks. He was my year 11 math teacher. He was very supportive and made me feel comfortable to ask as many questions as I needed, no matter how silly I may have thought those questions were. I would raise my hand and he would come over to my desk, squat down beside me and quietly talk me through the problem. He was another teacher, just like Miss McKee, who wanted to see his students succeed. I’m grateful for the teachers that I’ve had, because they inspired me to be where I am today.
One teacher that stands out to me was my high school roll call teacher. I had her from Year 7 to Year 12 and she was also my Geography teacher for Year 11 and 12. She was strict and didn’t have much time for students who misbehaved or were disengaged but for those students she saw potential in and who had a passion for the subject she had all the time in the world for. I remember I was considering dropping Geography for Year 12 and she it made it known to me she wasn’t happy with my pending decision. She praised my efforts for Year 11 and encouraged me to reconsider as she knew I had a strong interest in the subject. Her encouragement and belief in my ability made me decide to keep the subject for Year 12. I’ll always remember her passion for the subject and for encouraging me to continue with it because she saw my potential.
My family decided to migrate to Taiwan during my 4th grade and it was challenging as my Chinese writing skills was very limited. I remember my first Chinese test and the shame that I felt when I received my test results back; I knew I had failed but was too scared to tell the teacher that I couldn’t read or write Chinese. My Chinese teacher thankfully did not judge me but rather asked me what it was that I didn’t understand. After explaining to the teacher that I only knew limited Chinese she was very understanding of my situation and encouraged my parents to get a tutor for me. Even though I had a tutor helping me , my teacher always made sure to check in with me on my progress and never hesitated to help me if I had any questions. Her continued encouragement was game-changing for me as it kept me from losing motivation and made me want to achieve more. Being nurtured in such a way has stuck with me and has made me want to nurture and develop my own skills and also other peoples skills too.
Mr Porter was was my year 11 and 12 Oceanography teacher, what a wonderful person he is. His lessons were like a story, they had a beginning, middle and end. The beginning was on topic, studying the biology of a lobster for example. The middle was a wild ride in to his travels, politics, relationships, health and the environment. In the end he would use a metaphor or analogy to wrap up the off topic discussion and make it relevant to ocean currents or prawns. Initially it seemed bizarre and sometimes frustrating to spend so much of the lesson off topic. Then I realised the most important part of the lesson to me was not seaweed or wave ratios, it was the thoughts he was sharing with the class. He was imparting his wisdom on the students, and doing it in a way the provoked thought from easily distracted teenagers. He was able to deliver the class material effectively, we all did well in exams, but the real lesson Mr Porter taught me was how to be a good human.
I was not the best scholar. School and I were not best friends. My family moved to Perth from Gippsland, Victoria when I was about to enter year 11. I left my first teenage crush and all my friends to move to the other side of Australia. I was promised a school that I could continue my dance education at and instead I ended up teaching the other students. This A student in Victoria became a D student in Western Australia whom hated school with a passion. No teachers to talk about in WA. Im not bitter or sad or though I often lament on what could have been if I had have stayed with my friends.
From the years 7-10 in Victoria I attended a Catholic Brigidine school and was given fantastic guidance bby an amazing nun Sr Matin and another equally amazing Teacher, an ex Catholic brother Mr Ryan. To this day I remember the discussions I had with both of these teacher. Do animals go to heaven? and the one that got my goat, you cannot take communion in the Catholic chuch because you are Church of England. Boy did I show them!! Respect and nurturing were my key learnings.
Although I didn’t necessarily utilise my time well in high school, there were a few standout teachers that supported me and knew that if I had a bit of initiative and put in hard work I could live a successful life. Notably was my English teacher and House Colour Coordinator. Although teaching skills are important in high school, teachers also play an important role in shaping the character of the students within their classes. These are the leaders which many students, whether they know it or not, will shape these young peoples futures. Being empathetic and understanding is just as important as being a good teacher. I have no doubt that through the support and encouragement of my English teacher and House Colour Coordinator I became a better person.
After a horror year at my first high school, we moved to Queensland and I was lucky enough to join a brand new high school midway through inaugural year with only year 8’s in the school. (we graduated 5 years later as the first year 12’s to complete the journey) Because it was new, there were a number of first year or second year graduates taking on full time roles. One of these was Mrs Dale – my Japanese teacher. She was the only teacher to create imaginative, hands-on FUN lessons, but the best part was her care for not only us as students in her class, but as people in the school. She was heavily involved in theatre, drama, productions etc too, so I was lucky enough to spend lots of time in the presence of this inspirational teacher. I’m happy to say that once we finished school and became adults, she became a part of my friendship group of high school girlfriends (who all had a similar experience to me), and we all see her regularly!
I have been lucky enough to have a small army of teachers who made a difference in my life. Now as I reflect on them I can see the common element was that they all encouraged, embraced, and challenged my creativity. In Year 3 Mr. Derricott encouraged me to join Mrs. Sattler’s choir. In Year 6 Mrs. French continued to encourage and challenge my vocal range while introducing the recorder ensemble where I learned to play a range of instruments and music. In high school, Mrs. Babington was my drama teacher who turned constructive criticism into an art form that left me feeling encouraged towards a more productive/effective/interesting line of endeavour. At university, the list is endless as I have just completed my 3rd post-grad and will undoubtedly keep studying.
It is no real surprise that I have ended up in teaching and am now looking to extend and diversify my teaching practice.
I had just moved house, started a new school and was in Grade 1. Everything was unfamiliar to me, my neighbourhood, my school, my classmates. Looking back now it was such a large and overwhelming change for a person of my age at the time. It was the school principal Mrs Maria, who I distinctly remember. She was caring and kind, showing myself and my sister around the school and truly showing interest in how we were adjusting. Throughout my schooling she always took the time to make sure we enjoyed our learning and was always there for our support.
It was my first day of year three when I was introduced to Mrs Travers, the teacher who changed my life forever and inspired me to enter the realm of education. Mrs Travers was a kind, gentle and nurturing teacher who supported her students in every which way. She taught that learning was not limited to what was read in text books, but could also be understood through observation, touch and even mistakes. Rather than criticising students when they performed poorly, Mrs Travers would work with them after class, continuing until we understood where we went wrong. Through this approach Mrs Travers taught us it was ok to make mistakes, so long as we learnt from them. As a result we always wanted to do our best not only for Mrs Travers but also for ourselves.
My kindergarten teacher was the most memorable, she really met every student for whom they were not what was expected. She was gracious and courteous and because of these qualities students wanted to present their best in way of behaviour and ability. She was a very awesome teacher!!!
When I was in high school (I must have been around 13), my class had a cluster of teachers that worked together to produce their own materials to cover biology and geology. The way each topic was covered was as follows:
i) A leaflet was given to us where a question was posed in relation to some information about the given topic. (The one I remember best was one about how giraffes got their long necks and Lamarck’s and Darwin’s respective theories of evolution.)
ii) We had to ponder the question individually first.
iii) We were then set in groups of 4 or 5 people so that we deliberated with each other about our individual responses.
iv) An individual was nominated as spokesperson for each group and the topic was discussed by the whole classroom.
v) Another leaflet was distributed with extra information about the topic.
I absolutely loved each class. It was so engaging! It made us think and also taught us to express our opinions and hear each other–that is, to think cooperatively.
These teachers obviously shared not only a passion for their subjects of interest, but also for passing their knowledge on in a way that reached us and enriched us as people. Therefore, I will be forever grateful not only for the passion for biology that they ignited in me, but for showing me how to think collaboratively.
My most recent memorable teacher was Liz O’Donnell. She gave real life examples of the application of knowledge and there were no “dumb” questions”.
Students were invited to share their perspectives and learning was made relevant in a variety of contexts for understanding. All students were offered access to the teacher to clarify assessment events or for other questions. This made the assessment events less daunting.
My most memorable teacher was my Mental Health Nursing lecturer at the University of Surrey in England, Mr. Mark Rudd. I got into mental health nursing with little knowledge of the various mental illnesses and an understanding highly influenced by my traditional background that did not recognise some mental conditions.
Mr. Rudd explained concepts in a way that relates to everyday living that the subject began to make sense and cause a shift in my perception of mental illness. The examples he used were issues and situations that resonated with day to day living. I started associating his teachings with my life experiences and started getting some meanings of some issues.
He lectured like he was just having a conversation and he would embroider it with some humour. This kept me involved and attentive.
In the immortal words of Dr Seuss – “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
My kindergarten librarian was a lady by the name of Mrs Kracknell. We had a special little song, inspired by Mrs Cracknell’s less endearing characteristics – cranky Kracknell KKK, cranky Kracknell KKK.
Fortunately, Mrs Kracknell retired when I started year 1 and Ms Martin arrived. Ms Martin was the epitome of the perfect librarian. Ms Martin introduced year 1 to the enduring magic of reading and the immortal words of Dr Seuss. Ms Martin turned the library into a magical destination where the books came alive, the walls were adorned with colourful and thought provoking artwork and the annual book week dress up day became the most important date in the primary school calendar.
So, to once again draw inspiration from the immortal words of Dr Seuss – “You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.”
Thank you Ms Martin.
Thank you for sharing. I will start using this catch phrase with my children, “You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” I might be able to encourage them to read more.
My high school yearmaster oversaw us for 6 years. He also taught my geography class for a couple of years. He was passionate about doing his best to improve his students. Sometimes hard but always fair.
Throughout high school, I never heard a single student say a bad word about him. Even the students he was required to punish or discipline would respect him.
Geoff your high school yearmaster must have been an outstanding teacher. For him to be noticed by students that he was passionate about improving students.
At the age of 17, I spent 12 months in Kobe, Japan, as an exchange student. I was thrown into the deep end of the pool, with no Japanese language skills and a big dose of culture shock. Mrs Mariko Hayashi, one of the English Department’s teachers, came to my rescue, volunteering her out-of-class time to take me under her wing and provide me with intensive Japanese language tuition.
\Mrs Hayashi became my portal in understanding the confusion between the local dialect of the Kansai region and standard Japanese. She managed to weave in lessons of history, culture and even calligraphy. As the weeks went by my experiences in Japan became so much richer because of Mrs Hayashi’s investment in me. My circle of friends became more dynamic and the overwhelming feelings of homesickness and loneliness disappeared as I became a confident communicator in a second language. Mrs Hayashi made sure I was in that classroom 4 mornings a week and made sure that I took away a little bit of homework each day.
The things about Mrs Hayashi that I would like to reflect in my style of teaching are her interest to go the extra mile for students with special requirements, and ability to keep lesson’s interesting and an appreciation of one’s students’ diversity.
Hayashi Mariko Sensei, arigatou gozaimashita!
I have been lucky enough to have many great teachers over my life so far but my most influential teacher was my Year 9 Business Studies teacher. She was not only clever and passionate, she treated everyone in her class as if they were her own children and built our confidence to ensure that each and every one of us succeeded. It was the only class where every student wanted to attend and put 100% of effort into because we wanted to make her proud.
I have been privileged to have had many great teachers/Instructors over the years from school all the way through to my professional development and career training. Enthusiasm and Knowledge have always been present in my experiences but the instructors and teachers that stood out have had the ability to connect with the trainee/student, create a safe environment where learning and mistakes are “ok” and part of the process. they have also been able to provide different views and techniques in their instruction to cater for different peoples learning styles, strengths and weaknesses. They have been approachable and have the philosophy that there is no such thing as a dumb question.
With the above in mind my high school engineering science teacher, and two of my flying instructors have been fantastic examples of what a teacher/instructor should be.
One of my earliest and most memorable teachers was my dance teacher Miss Julie. She always showed energy and excitement for the new things we would learn, made learning fun, demonstrated patience, praised each student and commended us in front of our parents about things we had each done well. It created a love in me for learning and the arts, knowing that I could do well at anything if I put my mind to it and practiced.
When it comes to teachers, my most memorable one was back in high school during year 11. His introduced to us as Mr Kilde, however as time goes by we addressed him by his first name, David. This was also the reason why it was memorable, as he has the ability to ‘connect’ to each one of us and build a friendship, rather than a strict student-teacher relationship.
When I train someone in my workplace, my training method was inspired by David, as I set to position myself as a friend rather than a trainer. I found this method to be effective when conveying and coaching.
I truly believe that teachers with both passion and enthusiasm inspire students. They get students interested and even excited about what they are learning. Teachers that have left the greatest impression on me, are those who have demonstrated both passion and enthusiasm about the subjects they were teaching and who have had a zest for life itself.
A teacher that always comes to mind, is my TAFE teacher. When the class was learning anatomy, she told us to buy a secondhand Barbie doll and using a marker, draw all the muscles on the body of the doll from memory. This exercise was effective, fun and challenging. A perfect combination.
I consider myself extremely lucky to have had the benefit of studying under a number of inspirational teachers during my life. Looking back, a common theme between them has been their absolute passion for their subject, as well as the ability to really connect with their students.
Whilst having a thorough understanding and knowledge of a subject is without question an important aspect of teaching, it is the ability to transmit their knowledge and passion to their students that really differentiates a subject matter expert and an inspirational teacher.
Passion! The key to anything you wish to succeed at in life. I personally cannot pin point a teacher in my academic career whom influenced or inspired me in any way however I am very fortunate to have crossed paths with a manager at my old work place named Bron. I was 18/19 at the time and knew everything that the world had to offer, up until this point in time I don’t believe I ever took the time to respect another persons opinion on a subject I was educated in. Meeting Bron was a pivotal point in my career and I credit all my success to her.
Bron’s level of knowledge for the beauty industry and the services that she performed coupled with her rapport with clients was inspiring to me, I had instant respect for the manager and person that she was. Bron took me under her wing and guided me into becoming a knowledgeable and successful therapist. Bron was so many things and I still have so much respect for her today, I will be forever grateful that she decide to take a know it all teenager under her wing and turn that into something amazing!
My most influential teacher was my year coordinator in year 12. She was the teacher who pulled me aside before my Air Force interview process, as well as my airline Cadetship interview, for providing me with advice and tips for my preparation. She was in my eyes not just a teacher who taught me maths, she was also there to understand that what is required to make a successful person in the society, to think outside just the school and academic environment, to be ready for the outside world.
I have been fortunate to have had many great teachers in my academic life. They had guided me and equipped me with the knowledge required for me to be a good contribution to society. But if i have to name the teachers that made a difference in my life, it would have to be my parents. I learn honesty, integrity and the meaning of working hard to achieve your goals from them. I am the person that i am today because of them. They are the biggest influence in my life.
Although having many great teachers …some of the most impressionable have not been teachers at all. That is …not in the qualifications department. A great scout leader , an inspirational school rugby coach , a supportive squash team mate , my wife and my children, renown influencers ( Brendon Burchard/Simon Senik), a student at my school …have all been teachers in their own manner. I have learned from each and to ‘sharpen my personal skills saw’ – whether it be ‘life’s lessons’ , communications/ social skills , or professional development. It’s the sum of these ‘teachers’ that make a difference.
In primary school I was lucky to have Mrs Gray as my 3rd, 5th and 6th class teacher. It seemed like she could do anything – she lead us in singing along with the ABC School broadcasts, she taught us what seemed to be amazing arts & crafts projects and she was the sportiest teacher in the school – leading us in athletics, softball, vaulting and gymnastics plus she coached the girls netball and school swimming teams. She inspired us all to do our best.
In high school, my sister had a Maths teacher – Miss Horley and I eventually was lucky enough to have her in years 11 and 12. She taught me many things that have gone from my head now 40 something years later, but the most important lesson was to recognise that sometimes others need more attention from a teacher to help them keep up. She never made those students feel less than anyone else in the room. She is still a close friend all these years later.
The other teacher I am grateful to have met is Carla Miller, who I met at Jetstar & she is now with QantasLink. She mentored me in training other adults – to help me understand the value of being confident in myself and my knowledge to hold my own amongst others who sometimes either didn’t want to be trained or thought they knew better.
Over the years i have experienced many different styles of teaching but the teachers who resonate most are those that actually care about how the person learning is coping with the takeup of new skills and knowledge.
Interestingly, the teacher who inspired me the most was one who told me I was only achieving good results because I was able to rote learn. Whether this was an intentional strategy or not, I made it my goal to understand the topic the best I could which I was studying.
I found it very scattered throughout my schooling finding a teacher that really resonated with me and my learning. Until my first day of Year 5 in a small country town school.
Mr Felser was nothing like we had ever seen. He came from ‘the big smoke’ and brought life to the whole class of 9 year olds. He showed me that i could think outside the box and learn in so many different ways. As i train now i find myself going back to his lessons and how he carefully taught each child differently and tailored their learning to their needs. Honestly i don’t think i would be where i am today without his guidance and most importantly, his passion.
My schooling was very scattered, in the way that we moved a lot changing farms and states. I found this very difficult to be settled but my fifth grade teacher Mrs Floyd was such a calming influence for me. I had just moved states and this would make it my third primary school. (You would think that meeting new people and settling in would have been easy by now, but it wasn’t). Mrs Floyd was this little elderly lady that could when needed have a very big voice to compete with the number of noisy students and the large space of the classroom. Every morning we would go out for physical activity to help switch our brains on. One morning in the middle of a relay race I fell and broke both of my wrists. For the next 6 weeks I worked by Mrs Floyd’s side and she did all my writing for me as we went through the lessons. Not once did she miss a beat with the teaching of the class and not once did she make me feel like I was a burden. She made me feel very cared for which inspired me to care for others.
Mr Mundy was my year 8 math teacher and he was so full of life. He made learning math very exciting and if we looked like we were getting a bit sluggish, off we would go for a run around the school. Again he also made us feel very special and that we were all important to him. Nothing was every to much trouble if we didn’t understand.
Thirdly my fond memories were not of another teacher but from the front office. Mrs Hole was the receptionist/ PA to the Principal at one of my High Schools. Again her caring, welcoming and motherly like attitude has stuck with me for the last 32 years. If ever I visited the country town I would always make sure I could drop in and see her if only to say hello. She also had such a profound effect on me that I worked for 12 years in the Student Services of a high school and hoped that I would mirror the same compassion, care and nurturing ways that she showed her students and parents.
Throughout my time at school the biggest lesson that I learnt was that if we felt cared for, valued and safe it released us to strive to be the best that we can be both academically and personally. Thank you to all of my teachers who saw the best person I could be.
My 3 were, Number 1 My Prep teacher, we had just moved to Australia and I couldn’t speak a word of English- she told my parents not to speak English at home as I would pick it up at school, which I did. She was so patient with me and I loved going to school because of how she taught and how she welcomed all of our class to the beginning of our school lives.
Number 2 My Math’s tutor- In high school I was not very good at Math’s and kept failing, we had a family friend who was a Math’s teacher also the Principle of a Boarding school who tutored me, he made it just make sense and from then on I never failed again- we found that as a student I need to see the work in front of me, not just in my head. I actually use that skill in lot’s of different things now too- I am a write notes down/ make lists kind of person, and as the list is ticked off I feel like I’ve accomplished more in the day, even if it’s not even getting the whole list done. Even though school has been finished long ago for me, when I do these things it reminds me of him and what he taught me.
Number 3, any of my P.E. teachers, I never had a lesson in this that I didn’t like- it was my favorite subject, the teachers always made it fun and included everyone no matter what fitness level they were at. I wanted to include people and make them feel great the way these teachers did, I was certain that one day I would be a P.E. teacher too. (I’m not one though, haha).
I sincerely do not have great memories of school and school teachers as I have always founded education programs being carried on in a quite rigid way with very little space left to interpretation, discussion and sharing of opinions. I should admit I am talking of a very long time ago, where things were fairly different than present days and I am also referring to a very different country. However, I think I can confidently named three teachers that changed my approach to school, proving that education is indeed about enriching our understanding providing us with elements to question ourselves and the world itself so to face life and be able to connect and discuss with others for our, and automatically, their, personal growth.
My very first teacher at primary school was one of them. Her name was Gianna and she was the most caring as well as adequately strict teacher I have ever known. What I did admire about her was her natural ability to connect with everyone in the class the way we needed the most. She taught us to respect other people, no matter what. She particularly observed how we interacted with each others and if she founded any form of disrespect, she addressed it immediately making sure that the whole class would have been involved as an overall teaching lessons. It was not about punishing the culprits in front of a crowd, but rather an occasion to address the problem and talk about it to make everyone understanding why it was harmful and so inappropriate. I remember how she also taught us to liaise with disable people as we did have some in our class, and I strongly believe this is why I have understood since little age that we are all equal and there are few people that may need more support than others. This is not an easy and obvious connection for young people as they may see diversity as a threat perhaps, as it was the case of some of my classmates, but Gianna was able to change their attitude too.
The second teacher I would like to mention is my math teacher at high school. She was simply great, smart, funny, or I should rather say, sarcastic but in a good way. No one liked math, no one really understood it, and no one felt in love with it in my class. However, I did. There was something inspiring about collecting elements to find a solution, something absolutely rewarding in solving the problem. Perhaps the whole subject was not as poetic as literature, but, in my view, more practical and focused. While all my class mates preferred to play around with, or purposely distract, the literature teacher philozopising about nothing and everything just to let the hour pass by, I loved the way the math teacher, Ms Aldrighetti, did not allow us to do so and she was there to get to the point and, automatically, teach. As we all know high school students are not the easier ones to deal with and they can be sometimes too sharp and annoying when they take power in the classroom especially if they wish to “attack” an innocent teacher left on his own. Nothing of this has ever happened with Ms Aldrighetti, she was simply so focused and determined in her delivery of the matter, that she was able to beautifully control the class and gain all our respect fo her job. She had not an easy one teaching math as people did not wish to make the effort with that, but she was somehow able to bring all of us to a passing mark eventually and that came from the fact that we all respect her and were willing to do good for her. That is all I remember about such a powerful woman.
And finally the last teacher I wish to talk about is the lovely Henrietta, who I met along the path of my Remedial Massage Diploma. I should admit I choose that course out of curiosity and willingness to learn something new, more a practical approach than anything, I would say. She literally changed my entire view about it and with her extreme kindness as well as professionality she was able to show me a brand new world behind massage and she truly passed some of her passion on to me opening a complete new view on massage physical therapy. In all fairness, it is practically impossible not to love Henrietta for her extreme kindness and generosity and her absolute devotion to teach people and assess every single needs they may have. Her ability to interact with everyone in the class according to her/his attitude and requirements was so natural to her that you could instantly say she was born to be a teacher. She was able to give everyone the right attention, even those who did not really want any at all and that was a game changer for a lot of us when we were unsure about having chosen the right path for us. She also was brilliant in addressing each matter from different angles and, whenever needed, taking a slightly diversion from the curriculum, so to make everything more real and appealing to us all.
All in all, I think I was lucky enough to have those three teachers coming into my life at the right time for me. They all helped me to develop a specific aspects of my personality when I needed that the most to progress in the right direction for myself. I am very thankful for having met them along the way.
The first that comes to mind for me was my year 11 & 12 biology teacher, Mrs Filby.
She was small in stature but yet was able to command our respect. This was achieved without any form of threatening nature but rather by showing students the same respect she expected from us. Her teaching methods made even the most complex concepts easy to understand. And if any of the class were unsure of the lesson material, no one was afraid or ashamed to ask if Mrs Filby could go over it again and she was always more than happy to oblige.
I have had a number of teachers over the years. Some have been inspirational and some not so inspirational. There are a few who I idolised as a young child and wanted to be ‘just like them’ when I grew up. My daughter started school a few years ago and we had the privilege of the most amazing Kindergarten teacher. I think she set the standard of what is expected from my daughter for the rest of her schooling years. She was the kindest soul but had high standards. Her ability to encourage children, maintain their confidence whilst also getting them to always strive to improve was very impressive. She had me in line, even as a parent!
I don’t recall many of my teachers being particularly interested in my progress. I enjoyed school, was a tad naughty and very sporty. I do have one good memory of my grade 6 sports teacher, Mr. Patterson, who inspired me to ignore the mean comments from the boys who I played basketball and footy with. In the late ’70s, girls weren’t allowed to officially play footy once you were over 11 but I loved it and Mr. Patterson let me play during lunchtimes. He encouraged me to start basketball training after school and I went on to play State and WNBL. The difference one person’s encouragement can make in your life can be significant.
I also have great memories of a previous employer who was a mentor to me even after I had moved on from working for him. He would say “Good is the enemy of great” which I love and think of often when I’m procrastinating. Teachers can come in many forms throughout our lives.
I continuously strive to never be the teachers I encountered in my formative years …moving from Melbourne to Perth in the 60’s when I was in Grade 3 was pretty tough – I was from the ‘Eastern States’ (still get reminded to this day by Perth friends and relatives) , I didn’t write correctly, I was placed I the wrong year level, I didn’t know phonics and much to their horror I didn’t know anything about the explorer William Dampier or the Ord River irrigation scheme! These teachers taught me resilience, courage and I developed a love of learning from sheer bloody mindedness. I was determined to prove a person from the Eastern States was ‘good enough’ to be on the softball team and could achieve despite what they thought.
I too have several teachers that have inspired me throughout my life.
Through primary and high school i had a few teachers who took the time to assist me where i was struggling and allowed me to flourish. I also had a few teachers due my university studies that inspired me to never be the type of teacher they were. I will always strive to allow my students to flourish in a supportive atmosphere where they feel confident any question is a valid one.
My grade 5 teacher was an old Irishman, Mr. Finnegan who had many sayings and little quips to encourage us to learn. He spotted my love of the English language and poetry early on and encouraged it whole heartedly so much that I graduated dux of my year and I am forever grateful for that as it has influenced and guided me my whole life.
I cant necessarily remember any others until my son encountered a teacher in high school called Mr Nolan. My son was a somewhat gifted but lazy student. Under the guidance of this teacher, all that changed and his direction, his learning and his effort changed radically. Basically he owes his career to the inspiration of that teacher.
I have had teachers who not so much inspired me but were favourites for one reason or another. Mrs H was one of those. She was tough, hard and uncompromising but she was fair and loved her students.
Having been educated in the Catholic system throughout my school years, one of the most influential teachers I had was a woman called Sister Maree. For a nun she was young!
Her outlook on life and education was one of inspiration. She taught us, as young women, that we could do and be anything we set our minds to. She encouraged us to question not just to accept.
Her enthusiasm for knowledge still stays with me. Several years after I completed high school she relocated to the Northern Territory to teach indigenous children. I have not doubt she inspired another generation of children.
I grew up in a country town and went to primary school and high school there. I have great memories of a lot of teachers at both schools. I moved to a new school for Year 2 and my teacher was Miss Taylor. She was a young teacher, and such a lovely person who cared so much about her students and their curious minds. She encouraged me to make friends as I was new, and was really kind.
I had some strong male teacher figures in primary school who were very strict but one particularly stood out because he was so strict but so encouraging with me and my hand writing. He had a passion for writing and calligraphy and loved teaching this aspect to his class.
I have wonderful memories of many of my teachers throughout my early years but for me my high school biology teacher sticks out. The enthusiasm and positivity that came from her was fantastic and along with subject specific knowledge I often remember fondly many life lesson that she also taught me. Particularly that it is okay to fail, that we only learn from trying and it is not the outcome that matters the most it is the process and what we learn from that which is the most important.
In primary school, my main teacher was a wonderful, young male graduate. We were his first real job and he brought so much joy and excitement to class every day. He encouraged my writing, at only 10 or 11 years old, I wrote a play instead of an essay around the Nordic mythology.
Instead of pointing out that I had strayed far from the assignment given, he embraced it and turned my play into production. That year my class acted my play for the whole entire school, parents and personnel at the end of year show. He gave me the confidence to push boundaries and occasionally colour outside the lines, a godsend for high achieving, anxious and perfectionist child!
I encountered a wonderful teacher name Susan a few years ago while studying Horticulture. She had the great ability of connecting with people from all walks of life, encouraging their input and engagement and bringing out their best. For me personally she assisted with the decision to go on to further study in environmental science, gaining a higher qualification. I am eternally grateful. I have encountered many other great teachers like Susan and the common theme in their teaching styles was passion for their subject matter and genuine interest in each student’s learning and well being. My experience and many of the stories on this blog illustrate the profoundly positive impact teachers can have on people’s lives.
I had a lecturer in a project management elective who was the most impressive educator. She was the head of school and by luck I was scheduled into her tutorials late Monday nights. I remember getting a seat was almost impossible as attendance despite the time slot was always almost at capacity. She would engage the entire room, and started each lesson with a story of current real world situations that had relevance and correlation to each of our professional careers. She would then impart a wisdom of the reality of workplace politics and so would start the most dynamic debate of educated minds I was ever graced to bear witness to. For our last class she took us all across the road to the pub and continued our education. She proved the setting was not relevant to the possibility of learning.
In high school I had a maths teacher called Mr Burnett.
Because my sister had been put in to the accellerated stream . . . so was I, but i really should not have been. I worked hard to keep up with the other girls – but it was not easy.
Then came Mr Burnett – who on our first day lectured us that “girls can do anything”, and that has stayed with me forever. Mr Burnett pushed us hard – but we had a lot of fun along the way, which made it manageable. But he was also available – when we needed help, he was there to re-teach, guide, support.
He could see that i really had to work hard, and in my first report he gave me a B1. He explained that B was where my ability was at, and the 1 (highest ranking out of 5) indicated the level of effort – and that that was more important than an A grade
What a great teacher Liz. I truly believe that it’s good to provide students with challenge (within reason). Many people think that teachers shouldn’t push students. I don’t agree because when you push a student and then they achieve more than they thought they could do, this gives them self-esteem and builds their resilience. Of course, it’s a fine line. You must never push a student past their actual potential.
By the sound of it Liz, your Mr Burnett knew just how hard to push, and how to provide honest acknowledgement and encouragement.
I have distinct memories of two high-school teachers who profoundly influenced my life.
The first of these was a relief teacher named Mr Smith, who came to us when our regular science teacher took an extended absence due to poor health. Mr Smith was what could only be described as a fundamentalist Christian. I have no idea what gave him the idea to pursue a career in teaching science when the subject matter was so obviously at odds with his world view, but pursue it he did, much to the surprise (and possibly the detriment) of his students.
His ideas on evolution, reproduction, and female sexuality were, at best, bizarre, and at worst, downright dangerous. Certainly they had no place in a science classroom, and were so incongruous with the WA curriculum as to be laughable. This lead to some robust discussion, that became rather heated at times. My three months with Mr Smith taught me many things about the Bible and not a whole lot about science, but it also impressed upon me the importance of critical evaluation of all sources of information, and for that I am grateful.
Mrs Moffatt was my English literature teacher, and is the second subject of this tale. She was an older lady – frail, with greying hair – and was, unsurprisingly, quiet and bookish. She seemed, to all intents and purposes, like a sweet and kindly grandma, and most of the time, she was.
But she did not suffer fools (and evidently she thought any kid that had not completed their homework a fool) and she let this be known in no uncertain terms. She had an impressive vocabulary, and one day she unleashed its full power upon an unsuspecting student, who was subsequently reduced to tears. She did not raise her voice, and she did not swear, but the precision of her rebuke was devastating.
It was horrific. But, more than any of her lectures on Shakespeare, it taught me the power of words, be they used for good or ill. It’s a lesson I’m unlikely to forget.
Inspirational Teachers.
I’ve been lucky to study in several academic and practical areas and as someone that studied outdoor education as an undergrad, it’s the teachers that demonstrated a mastery of their craft that I respected the most, and that I still remember most.
Dan H is a former US Marine Corps Scout Sniper that wrote the USMC field manual on high angle sniping. He is a quietly spoken, consummate professional with a unique ability to explain complex trigonometry in the classroom, while also correcting shooting technique errors in the field.
Kevin G is a helicopter instructor who had me flying better in few hours than other instructors had managed in forty. He’s a task-master that isn’t impressed by anything but perfection, but when you get it right, he’s the first to let you know. When you get it wrong, he’ll wait to see if you acknowledge the mistake and correct it rather than immediately jump all over the error and destroy morale.
WOW Adam what great stories, now to see if we can get you to that standard.
Teachers who have inspired me…..
My son Harper has been so blessed in the past two years as his teachers for 2019 and 2020 have been amazing people dedicated to the role they play in the lives of these young people.
Harper’s teacher this year is a young lady, Miss W. She is a very energetic, intelligent and dedicated person. She goes out of her way to memorise every persons name and further details upon first meeting them, she uses her interests in dance and drama to connect with her students and she empowers them to take responsibility of their own learning and decisions. Harper started the year in a bit of a huff. “My teacher just likes to dance and she doesn’t do fun stuff that I like”. Well, within a few weeks Harper was coming home telling me how she supports him in his ideas and following his individual path, yet she has him joining in on dance and drama, and that’s a first.
Mr D was Harpers teacher in 2019. He is also quite young, very passionate and has a no one gets left behind attitude. For the first time Harper had a teacher that really listened. Mr D would regularly bring items in for different students and include these in his lessons for the next few days/weeks. An example is when Harper brought a ship that He and his Pop had carved, a replica of the HMS Sirius. This boat became the main prop for the classroom model and conversations of the first fleet, “Terra Nullius”, and Australians traditional custodians. Harper was thrilled and so became so tangled in school and learning from then onwards.
My third inspiring teacher was my preschool teacher, Mr W. Mr W rode a motor bike and wore a yellow rain coat. He was fun, musical and very energetic. This experience made such an impact on my life that I too became a preschool teacher and have since tried to make such an impact on children’s lives as Mr W had on me.
Like Miss W, I have used my interests and strengths to capture the attention of children throughout my career. Till this day a regularly come in contact with past students and they remind me of the great memories they have of their time at preschool.
Marcus that is a fabulous story and from the way you are getting into your course, I feel certain you too will be a wonderful teacher
As an INFP child I always felt like an alien in my very large family, as the square peg in the round hole I realised at a young age to either try to fit or just be happy with who I am.
Coming from a strong matriarchal family I was able to appreciate that as a women I can choose to be as accomplished as I want to be.
This opened the door to gain as much knowledge as I could.
So I enjoyed school. I viewed every day as a new experience and the School teachers that inspired me truthfully all were women.
First class was Miss Narelle Nolan, such a warm and encouraging spirit , I know I never had a sick day as in her class I felt like I could just be.( Not even an Alien) Miss Nolan had a way of making you feel special and again as all others have said the love she had for teaching permeated through everything she did. As the years passed when our paths crossed I always thank her for caring and inspiring us.
My mother Dawn, born in Swansea NSW in 1942 was the only child of a very sick woman, so she was raised by her great grandmother ( who had 17 other children to look after) Sent to boarding school and being a victim of abuse she really only had a few years of schooling. Her inquisitive mind had her reading fluently and writing at 4 years old. She was moved to Sydney when she was Thirteen, her great grandmother allowed her to be married to a twenty five year old man, at fifteen she had her first son only to find out that the marriage was not legitimate so they were married behind the alter at St Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney. She had 2 more boys things became very difficult.
Her husband was violent, a gambler and a womaniser all of which she put up with, for in the 1960’s there wasn’t a lot of support for domestic violence ….and she really was still a child herself. The violence started to turn towards her boys and now she would not allow that. She fought back, it scared him and he had her institutionalised and the boys put into an Orphanage. It took years to get them out of the orphanage as the church and the Government control these institutions, finally she got a call from one of the lovely nuns there that the funds were cut so an opportunity had arisen to take the boys home, so she got them that day. I tell you this back ground, and believe me there are so many more chapters to be told, because her philosophy in life is to move forward, the past is past and don’t be a victim to any negative in your life. She may have had limited education but she is one of the smartest people I know.
My grandparents immigrated to Australia after WW2 by boat. landing in Sydney they were sent to an immigration camp in Greta. My Grandfather had a gift with language being from Romania which is a Latin based language he would easy pick up a new language, he spoke eleven in fact at the time of his leaving Germany and learnt English on the trip to Australia. He was working as an engineer on the railway from the first day of employment until his retirement at 65. He taught me to listen and extend myself and to travel so that I can understand all people and see the bigger picture. I love him for this
So very many teachers have influenced my life in different ways. They all had a passion for what they taught. They also had compassion, patience, and kindness towards those they were teaching. They inspired an attitude of respect towards the teacher, the learning space and fellow students. This inspiration came from their own respect for these things. They were sometimes hard as a thunderbolt and sometimes soft as a rose.
It is not easy to choose only three though if I think of primary school teachers it is Mrs. Brown and Mr. Carlton who come to mind. Both of them were older teachers who had a reputation for strictness. Mrs. Brown was my fifth-grade teacher and at first, I was unhappy about being in her class because of this reputation. Mr. Carlton was my sixth-grade teacher and my sentiment was the same.
Part of my gratitude towards them is because of this strictness. Which I could see came from their passion and respect for their role. Mrs. Brown encouraged me to start reading novels, she knew just the right books to give a ten-year-old boy. My love for reading was born at that time.
Mr. Carlton saw me talking as he was explaining some mathematical equations. He said perhaps I felt I didn’t need to hear what he was saying and sent me out of the classroom to do the equations on my own. After five minutes of feeling sorry for myself, he came and with obvious compassion asked me to come back to class. This made a very strong impression on me, he showed me why we shouldn’t talk out of turn while in the classroom, rather than just telling me not to.
Later in life, I started to explore philosophy which led me to study yoga philosophy. The many teachers who taught me yoga philosophy also have the same qualities of compassion, and respect.
They teach by example as well as with words. The best teachers always have a way of explaining things so that they are relevant to the students. My gratitude for them knows no bounds and it is this gratitude which is one of my main inspirations to somehow try to follow in their footsteps.
Yes Micah. Where you use the word “compassion” I would replace it with “empathy”.
Great to know you are inspired to follow in their footsteps. My belief is that the best trainers are those who are inspired to help others to learn and grow.
I’ve always been inspired by example in action, not just masterful delivery. Example that’s fueled by love and compassion. A person who loves what he/she teaches, and walks the talk — one who perfectly embodies all that they teach.
Moses said “Preach always, sometimes even using words”. Gandhi said “Be the change you want to see in the world!”
My main inspiration was a teacher whom I never had the chance to personally meet, yet have been able to read thousands of pages of his written wisdom, as well as a myriad of biographies by his intimate students and followers. There’s also a legacy of thousands of hours of lectures and recorded conversations over the years, delivered in various places around the globe to a vast variety of different audiences. These teachings and the inspiration behind them has completely transformed my life for ever. That great and transcendental gentleman, who authored over 80 volumes of books translated from ancient Sanskrit and Bengali, complete with illuminating commentaries, was my Grand Spiritual Master, Shrila A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.
Swami Prabhupada, on the behest of his Spiritual Master, and at the ripe age of 70, traveled by steam ship from Bombay to New York with no more than 3 sets of robes, a bag of oats (didn’t know if there’d be anything “vegetarian’ in America!), and 40 Rupees, + a trunk of books he’s published that were picked up on route.
He knew no one in the States, but with firm faith in his mission and the integrity of his Guru’s teachings, he spent the last 12 years of his life traveling and spreading Divine love all over the globe.
He founded 108 centres for spiritual education — Temples, Farming communities, and urban outreach centres, published dozens and dozens of books for the upliftment of humanity and inspired millions. Ethan Trex of CNN, one of the major US news networks, listed Swami Prabhupada as “one of the 10 most wildly successful people” — period!!
His life was that of a perfect exemplar, working tirelessly simply to give others the chance of true happiness.
When I was 19, for want of a better word, I had a bit of an ‘awakening’. I realised that humanity, despite our evolved level of consciousness and intelligence, was doing no more than any other species of life — simply eating, sleeping, mating and defending. The only difference is that we’d complicated things to the extreme. So what, then, was the purpose of our existence and this developed level of intelligence if that’s all we’re about? What made humans special, if anything at all?
In this way I looked to the literature’s and practitioners of various traditions, both philosophical and spiritual, for answers. I wasn’t convinced that “get educated to make good money, eat well, sleep nicely, indulge in acquisition and indulge in various types of sensual or intellectual entertainment, was going to cut it for me, at least not as far as a happy, fulfilled existence goes. Even though I had this inkling, I still had my many vices, attachments and aspirations to fulfill. At 19, who wouldn’t?
When I finally came across some of Swami Prabhupada’s books all of my questions were answered — and more. Not only that, but through his students I was presented with a very practical lifestyle replete with practices (bhakti-yoga sadhana) that, over the years, have given me great joy, purpose and a sense of knowing. A way to become a better and much happier person with much greater resilience to the transitory appearance and disappearance of happiness and distress in this world. — Processes and practices that are gradually making me less selfish and self-centred, and a kinder and more considerate person. Who knows, one day I may even be able to exhibit even just a fraction of the inspiration, love and compassion of Swami Prabhupada and be able to help others find the same with in themselves?
Michael, it’s clear from your comment how dedicated you are.
Teachers don’t have to be people you have interacted with personally.
They can be people who set an example for life.
We should always keep learning.
Sandy
Although I just turned 40 this year, I can vividly remember Miss Hill from early in my primary school days as one of kindest, warm and endearing woman I have ever met. (She also had the longest hair I have still ever seen to this day, which she would lovingly plait into two endearing pigtails).
Looking back I can see that she naturally modelled empathy and unconditional positive regard well before they were counselling-psychology buzz words! Everyone was treated equally with care and respect, and encouraged to apply their own strengths and support others with their weaknesses.
She created many moments of experiential learning, regularly involving us in role-plays and group exercises to share our experiences, feelings and emotions, whilst coaching us how to resolve conflict and better our communication and coping skills.
She engaged us with hand written personal and motivational notes every day, and encouraged us to write positive feedback to our peers daily in our student letter box.
To be honest I was struggling at home with parents divorcing and a family breakdown during this time, but I always felt safe, accepted and secure in Miss Hill’s presence. You could tell she loved her job, and was grateful for being able to impact on other’s lives in a positive way.
Her teaching style influenced me to follow my passion for learning and teaching. It also contributed to my awareness of how important it is to treat students (and colleagues) individually with respect, to focus on strengths, adapting to learning styles and to ultimately incorporate and encourage students prior knowledge, skills and experience as something of value. This ensures as a Trainer that I am also constantly learning and evolving!
This story was a fantastic reflection on my own schooling. It brought back great memories of the fantastic and rather unique early education experience I was lucky enough to experience. Growing up in a rural area, I attended the local small school for my infants and primary school learning. I was fortunate enough to have the same classroom and the same teacher for each and every year. In my year group there were only 2 other students.
Our small community was like family, there was no school bus and morning and afternoons were spent playing in the playground whilst our parents chatted.
Mr Hope was our teacher. He was a fantastic man who managed to teach every year group at once and in the same room. Looking back now, I am in awe of how he managed it. He covered all areas of our education from the basis through to music, art, dance and sport without ever indicating any area of weakness.
Even though he wasn’t from our area he managed to bring everyone together in a way that made the kids interested to learn and the families keen to support and be involved. This was a fabulous foundation to my early learning experiences.
Years on, with a stuffy private school education and many years of further education under my belt, I still reflect on these early years and appreciate the learning environment that was provided for us.
My answer to the question ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?’ changed regularly, from a singer or a dancer, to an accountant or a teacher, then finally to a sport scientist or a CEO. It was during this phase of my imagination that I finished high school and began my tertiary studies. Still unsure of what I wanted to do, I began a double degree, Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Sports Science. My love of these two subjects, business and sport, had been sparked by my senior business teacher and experiences with team sports. However, after the first semester of study I wasn’t sold. I loved the content, but upon returning to the original question, ‘what do you want to be when you grow up?’, I couldn’t see an answer that would result from my current degree. So I did what many people do, I resorted back to my previous idea of being a teacher and I changed to study a Bachelor of Secondary Education, and it was through this decision that I finally found my answer.
The decision to be a high school teacher majoring in subjects of Business and Health and Physical Education was easy, but the question had now shifted to ‘what type of teacher do you want to be?’. It wasn’t until my final year of study that I found my answer. Having completed three placements at various schools with multiple fantastic teachers I was confident that teaching was my calling, but was still unsure of exactly what style of teacher I would become. My final placement was back at the high school I attended, and I was lucky enough to be supervised by the business teacher that taught me and sparked my love of the subject. Little did I know that she would also provide the answer to my new question. Janelle (because we were one of those schools that call teachers by their first name) is the definition of the perfect teacher. She has a warm and kind heart so that every student she teaches knows that she cares about them, yet maintains high expectations and demands the respect and maximum effort from all students. Janelle has a love for the subject and her job, she sparks the passion in all of her students and encourages each of them in a way that enables them to achieve their potential.
Janelle will always be my teacher, mentor, role model and the most inspirational teacher to make a difference in my life. She ignited my love of business years ago as a high school student, and has now guided me to become the teacher I am today. Janelle is my inspiring teacher and I hope that someday I might be that inspiring teacher for one of my students.
I have a vivid and kind memory of my french teacher in high school. During the hardest period of my life, school was not the place I wanted to be, and I was feeling misunderstood my all the adults around me specifically my teachers.
This teacher saw that I wasn’t behaving the same way I used too for few weeks now. And instead of being rude and heavy with me. He waited one day and ask me to stay after the class.
This teacher knew his student. He was not only here to teach french, he was here to support and give a good direction to our progression in life as an adul†.
It has been hard to talk and to tell what was happening in my life at this moment, but it also has been a big release and help. This teacher took my defence and support me all year after taking the time to understand the reason of my changement.
He definitely made a huge difference in my life and I always kept him in mind. Today I want to be a teacher, to teach my passion and knowledge but also to support others through their life journey to feel special and unique. I want to be the kind of teacher who teach to individual people aware of their own history and not just a teacher sharing information to a group of insignificant people.
Juliette, you have the right passion to teach, and it’s clear your French teacher was a great role model for you. This is the most important part of teaching. We support our students. We help them to succeed.
Teachers that I remember from school include Mr Brand for Year 4 and 5. My first male teacher and mostly I remember how funny he was, which made all aspects of learning fun. He managed to get even the naughty and uninterested kids on board so we felt like we were all having a good time whilst learning. Mrs Smith, my music teacher throughout secondary school was so passionate about music and striving to be better, always willing to go the extra mile for music students and encouraging in every aspect of music. I used to wonder why she didn’t have children but perhaps all her energy went into her students and she was certainly a key part of my musical education. My physics teacher in Year 11 & 12 was the first teacher I felt that treated us like adults. There was just no consideration of the fact we might be immature he just taught us like adults and expected us to behave accordingly. Worldly and wise, he was quiet but so knowledgeable you wanted to respect him and listen to what he had to say.
Hey Mary what wonderful stories, now you and I get to work together to get you to that same level…. 🙂 David
When I reflect upon the teachers who have influenced my life over the years, very few are represented during my childhood or teenage years. There are a few who I remember with some fondness. Mr. Kuschel participated enthusiastically in the weekly singing sessions even though his voice was almost as monotone as my own, and he genuinely sought to be innovative in the classroom at a time when teaching was rather formulaic. Mr. Broadbent, head of the P.E. department encouraged me to take my own learning path during my grade 12 year and supported my efforts to attempt new experiences that inspired me. Both teachers role modelled creativity and they were willing to dedicate extra time to work outside the box.
However, the most exceptional teachers I have worked with, would not refer to themselves as teachers. I’m quite certain they would prefer the term facilitators or mentors, whose primary role was to inspire the learner to seek knowledge and enable the practical implementation of learning, in our daily lives.
A great teacher develops a desire for life-long learning and one of the most critical ingredients becomes the attitude of the learner and their commitment to personal growth. My genuine passion for learning was ignited several years ago when I began my MA in Leadership program in Canada. The pedagogy was based around the idea of the transformational-servant leader and no-one modelled this better than Professor Bill Beatty.
Although we are no longer in touch on a regular basis, Bill will always be one of the great influencers in my life. Of the 12 units completed in my MA program, Bill facilitated 6 of my courses and greatly influenced my leadership approach, not only in the workplace, but also in my role as a father, friend and community volunteer. Despite being in his 60’s and having taught for many years, his readings were never more than a year or two old and we frequently discussed academic articles that had only been published weeks or days beforehand. He maintained his own personal development, volunteering on the board for several non-profits and stepping in to various leadership roles for struggling organisations, including terms as CEO, while maintaining his commitment to every student. He was incredibly humble, generous with his time and showed me the power of a great question to help people discover answers for themselves.
An ability to build trusting relationships, a genuine passion for the field of learning and a desire to understand the unique needs of each learner, are critical components for great facilitators. I’m inspired by people like Bill, to continually develop in these areas.
Hey Darren and with your background experience I also feel you too will be a great influencing teacher….. David
As I look back to my school years and even in my years spent at our local Tafe, I am fondly reminded of several teachers that I to this day look up to. They shared their life experiences and knowledge as well as supported me as if I was family.
In high school there was Ms Kelly she was a science teacher she had a passion in what she was teaching that was a rarity I had not seen before, she was always that teacher the one everyone wanted, she was able to take a lesson and make it fun and inclusive for everyone. She wasn’t a “strict” teacher but she had limits and people knew when they had broken that.
It was her passion for her students as well that I remember if you had problems or needed to speak to someone she would always try to make herself available and never passed judgement, she made everyone feel like family and this friendship continued even after I had left high school.
At the local Tafe I attended at as an apprentice chef there was my teacher and mentor Lee. She had a passion for cookery and it showed when she was teaching, it made it all the more enjoyable and fuelled my passion for cooking with her own. She knew when something was wrong and would always be supportive but also knew when to push a student to become the best they could be.
The best memories are when she would be teaching and randomly just have a joke with you in class, It made the experience feel personal and would always lighten the mood in the classes even on a bad day.
She knew when your confidence was low or you were feeling vulnerable and always helped to push you through it and show you exactly how strong you could be and remind you never to lose faith in yourself or your abilities. I treasure the friendship I have with Lee to this day and will always remember her lessons because of this.
The first teacher I ever had and the person who helped me realise where I wanted to be will always be my father. It was his passion for cooking and the meals he created while I was young that pushed me to be the person I am today. It goes without saying that without his guidance and knowledge I wouldn’t be who I am now.
With out these people in my life I have no idea where I would be or what I would be doing, that’s what it means to me to be a teacher and that’s exactly how I want to teach the students I have in the future.
WOW what inspirational stories Ethan and you never mention this yesterday in our phone chat. I also got something else out of your stories, we both have a passion for cooking, I have been in the Hospitality industry myself for over thirty years mostly front of house and have an Advanced Diploma in that area and a Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery. Now all I have to do is work with you to get your Cert IV in Training and Assessment and you can then became an inspirational teacher too. You’re okay for a bad boy! and I know you know what I mean by that….. so looking forward to working closely with you on your journey. David
It’s so inspiring to read stories of how teachers have influenced a persons life, how what may seem small and insignificant to one has so much meaning to another.
I know one teacher I was significantly inspired by was my high school English teacher, Mrs Hughes. After moving schools in the middle of the year she was the teacher that went out of her way to support me building friendships and gaining knowledge of classroom expectations. She was able to determine my weaknesses and supported me in the developing skills and confidence in overcoming them. She praised me when she saw I was making an effort and encouraged me when I wasn’t.
Unfortunately I can’t remember my preschool teachers name but I can easily recall a day when I was at my daycare and became unwell, the teacher looking after me pulled out a stretcher bed and placed me on it and then just sat beside me offering comfort and reassurance until I was collected. Looking back I often wonder if this was the moment I learned the meaning of compassion and understanding.
I am now a Early Childhood Teacher myself and work along side so many amazing people who offer so much inspiration. I am constantly amazed at the compassion, understanding and dedication they share with these young learners.
As Einstein says “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge” and I believe there are many teachers who are able to awaken that joy.
Great stories Elissa and I am loving working with you to help you become a great teacher too…. so far your submissions have been of a very high level…. 🙂
I come from a remote community in the Northern Territory, I was sent away from my home to go to boarding school. when I was enrolled the school suggested that I was to be put up a grade, I was in year 9 and thought this was a great time, living away and not having the supervision of my family. year 9 was playing games, try to make it serious, make friends and have a laugh. so of course my report did not stand out – teachers at this particular school really did not pay much attention if you wanted to learn or not. year 10 was just the same and by this stage i begun to lose interest in school and want to go home. I started running away and doing things i should not have been doing.
Year 11 came around and by the first term of the semester i was kicked out of school. i was sent back to my home community and that was it. At this time my grandmother was working at the community school, one day as i was walking past she has stated that i will be returning to school there and no buts about it. i thought….’like no nana i just wanna work and that’s it’…but that suggestion of saying this to my grandmother soon left my mind and i then was enrolled in the local school the next day.
Going into this school all i could think about is this is boring, i want to go home and watch TV. my mother had followed me and we had met the new principal and the high school teacher who was the principals wife. The first thing that popped into my head when i first met her was OMG look at that hair….this women’s hair that was bright red and her skin pale white….this is going to be fun. so talking to her and the principal meeting and greeting went okay but i still had the attitude of this sucks i want out.
i went to school the first few wks and all i did was argue, i left school once again and this time the red hair lady came running out of the school while i was walking past and said “why have you left, you are one of the smartest girls i know, you can be anything you want if you would stop being stubborn and come back to school, cleaning at the local clinic is not going to help you survive when your older, you can travel and see the rest of the world” and begged me to return. i thought….oh this women is nuts but she seems to have a bit of care of my education. the next day i went back, my grandmother as well seen me and had a bit of talking to.
lets just say returning that day changed everything, i finished year 11 and 12, i was one of the first Indigenous student to ever complete year 12 in a remote community, i was awarded the highest achievement award for year 12 in that year, my TER score got me into university where i completed a degree in Cultural Tourism. along the way i have had this red haired teacher Robyn and her husband the principal George encourage every step of the way, provide advice of my next steps in life, break the barrier for the fear of moving to another state, showed me that i can achieve anything in life. My grandmother who also was there gave me stability and trust back into me. Her strict encouragement gave me hope and i am forever thank full for that and where i am doing another course along with all my other achievements.
Lianna this is an inspiring story. Having spent 10 years in a bush community I saw so many young people who have taken the easy path that leads nowhere. The red haired teacher lady could obviously see something in you and didn’t give up on you, unlike those teachers in the previous school. Not giving up on our students is something that we should all practice. And the fact that you knuckled down is a great refection on your own drive. Of course we mustn’t forget your grandmother.. good on her. I look forward to seeing you finish this course and go on to a wonderful career.
I can’t recall another time when I have consciously made an effort to consider the influence teachers have had on my life, but in doing so now it didn’t take long to recollect a few pivotal moments that have stuck with me through time. The first of these memories comes from a high school physics teacher named Mr Groschner. Mr Groschner was a very tall man who spent his school and university years in Germany, and as such spoke with a thick, intimidating accent, and had a predictably practical way of communicating. I really had no place being in a year 12 physics class as it appealed to none of my natural abilities, but I needed that class to pursue what I wanted back then after school finished. I struggled with the concepts and I struggled with the maths, and Mr Groschner could tell. He sat with one day and watched me battle with a series of formulas before asking me what I was doing, ‘physics’ I said.’What if you were baking a cake’, he replied,’ you see a page full of numbers and I see a recipe, anyone can bake a cake if they follow a recipe can’t they’. This seemed like abstract advice at the time, but I can honestly say it taught me about breaking things down into small steps and following a process, and that it’s possible to get to to the answer even when you don’t fully understand the concept. And that when a problem seems too complex, it usually just means it need to be broken down into smaller steps.
Another teacher who has had a lasting impact was a high school year advisor named Ms West. Although Ms West was never directly involved in any of my classes, she was the type of teacher to keep an eye on all her students, all the time, and would discreetly steer them toward circumstances that enabled us to grow. I was always quite introverted throughout school, however I often found myself in positions of leadership or socially challenging situations that had been engineered by Ms West. I am thankful for the confidence that being put in those situations has given me as an adult, and would hate to think how I would handle myself if I had not had exposure through school.
The third teacher who’s influence has been lasting is also my mum. Although she was my teacher in the third grade, a fact we both agree now was a bad idea, it wasn’t her influence on me academically that has hung around. She has taught me through leadership by example, continually upgrading her skills and increasing her knowledge through continued study, without any hint of self promotion or need for validation from anyone else. Now, in retirement, she has found a new passion in competitive swimming, and chairing the children’s book council of Australia, both of which she does to her full potential. Whenever I feel lazy or the cloud of procrastination looming, I think about what mum is doing right now, and that serves as motivation that I draw on regularly.
I can very much relate to two of your three influencers having such an impact in your life. The person who has had the greatest impact and influence on my life was my mother. She taught me the importance of being true to myself and to use any gift I had been given to its maximum potential. Growing up in an era where women were considered only as home-makers, mum encouraged my studies, my drive to succeed in the business world and my career aspirations and was always there lending her support. She , like I, believed in life-long learning. The second person to have had a great impact on my education was my high school English teacher, Miss Brooks. She was a very tall, serious (almost scary) and commanding teacher who pushed me very hard every lesson but the pushing was always with the best intentions (although at the time I didn’t think so) of getting me to strive to do the best I could; to stand up for what I believed in and to set realistic goals for my future.
My most inspirational teacher was my science teacher, Mr McKenzie. He was young and enthusiastic. He was always pulling out as much equipment as he could, and seemed to love devising experiments. I think he felt Science was best learnt by observing physical phenomena. I think his enthusiasm and his tendency to bend the rules to make science fun were what made him an inspirational teacher.
Thanks for sharing this Donna. You mention enthusiasm and this is such a key part of being a great Teacher or Trainer and Assessor. If we love what we do and we are enthusiastic about what we are teaching our learners then it will make a big difference to the engagement of our learners.
I don’t recall any teachers at school having a great influence on me but in recent time the most influential teacher has been my last Manager, Olivia. She has a way about her that is so relaxed and in control in a training environment. Each time I see her in training I learn something different which ensures I continue to grow as a trainer.
Thanks for sharing this Karen. It makes such a difference doesn’t it when your Trainer is relaxed – I think the learners then relax and ultimately learn better because the learning environment is not stressful.
Gordon Barnes taught me Community Services at TAFE. He taught us that the world was not a level playing field and that education was the way up for many of us. Gordon pushed me hard, saying that I was bright and should go to uni. Sometimes I felt he demanded more of me than other students, however he said I was capable and should try my best. I did go onto uni, and in my first history assignment received a mark of 100%. Gordon had pushed me hard enough to make the transition to uni fairly smooth. I began university the year after Gordon taught me, I was 47 years old and went on to complete three degrees. He taught me if was never late to change or learn.
I have memories of a teacher in high school whom not only was a great teacher in his given subject area but connected with this students on a deeper level. He wanted to see kids explore their interests and achieve their goals. His former career was an athlete and through his experience being a professional sportsman was able to inspire us through his stories of achieving beyond what he thought was possible. He gave hope to those who weren’t academic and those who didn’t fit well into the school system. He taught woodwork at school and was one of the reasons I did an apprenticeship in carpentry.
Hey Ben, that is wonderful story, the way you are progressing through your course, you tool will be just like this, I have been so impressed with the quality of work you are submitting.
I have fond memories of my early primary years. I was a naughty child because I was bored, and would stand on the desks and jump off them while yelling: “Wonder Woman!” or “He-Man!”. I have a limited memory of this but my prep teach Mrs Attard warmly reminded me ten years ago while catching up in our local dog park. My mother happened to be with me at the park at the time and laughed with great enthusiasm . Pure joy was splashed across her face at the idea of someone else also having to put up with my odd behaviour.
While living in Japan, I had a Japanese language teacher Kikuko who not only shared her wisdom, but also her passion for the practice of mindfulness and understanding. I learned a lot about Japanese philosophy, stoicism, and how hearing is different to listening. When we listen to a student we study not only their answer but their approach. When we just hear a student we only hear their reply. To form a deeper connection with our students while remaining professionally distant is a hard task yet rewarding on multiple levels.
The greatest lesson I have learned was the notion of life learning; we never stop learning, and that knowledge is no weight to carry. My mother and father encourage my curious mind and the practice of always asking questions, even when we think we may already know the answer.
You have made me smile Natasha. Thank you for sharing. I absolutely agree agree that we never stop learning and I love your words that “knowledge is no weight to carry”. As you have said, it is so important to not just “hear” a student but to understand what they are saying and where they are coming from.
Teachers who influenced my life – 16 August 2019 I had a wonderful Latin teacher in High School. Mrs M had to deal with a loud, rude and rowdy class every day. It was surprising we retained anything she taught us due to our own constant disruptions. Many classes would end in Mrs M breaking down in tears. I think of that teacher because of her resilience and passion. Despite a classroom full of horrible teenagers, she was passionate about teaching us Latin. She remained at that high school for many years. Mrs M influenced my awareness of how learning is impacted by the environment and that it is important to be present in response to where and how we are trying to learn or teach. My own children have had trouble learning in the primary school environment this year because of violence in the classroom and playground. Teachers are responsible for classroom physical and emotional safety and need to seek assistance from the school management whenever required. This becomes a systemic issue as to how effectively school management supports their teachers and the classroom. Students can’t learn and teachers can’t teach in toxic environments. A safe learning space is essential. This is what I reflect on from my high school Latin class, and it is a priority in any training I conduct. Mrs M – Gratias ago tibi magister!
The teacher, activist, performer and community builder who taught me how to play the djembe drum was highly influential in my life. She encouraged me to begin teaching drumming not long before she passed away 8 years ago. Without her encouragement I would not be here today studying a Certificate 4 in Training and Assessment. I have since taught hundreds of children and adults how to play the djembe in drum circles and workshops.
It’s difficult to think of a third teacher as I have been lucky to learn life and higher education lessons from so many amazing, passionate, dedicated human beings. Those who had personal qualities such as patience, kindness, compassion as well as being good at explaining concepts and ensuring everyone in the class moved along together so no one is left behind in the learning.
Gabrielle thanks so much for sharing your story of Mrs M. You mention something so important and that is “a safe learning space is essential”. Teachers, Trainers and Assessors need to be brave enough to deal with any behaviour or language that is not conducive to a relaxed and safe learning environment. If someone is fearful then there is definitely going to be a block to learning – as you say students can;t learn and teachers can’t teach in such an environment. We have developed some brilliant online PD for Teachers in collaboration with Michael McQueen, well-known futurist, research and author. I wish every Teacher in Australia could go through it as it deals specifically with some of the issues you have discussed. It is all about Engaging the 21st Century Learner. https://ittacademy.net.au/workshops/professional-development-workshops/engaging-the-21st-century-learner-m-mcqueen/
Enjoy your studies Gabrielle.
My favourite teacher in high school was my English teacher Mr Mitchell. He had a kindness about him and he genuinely saw potential in me when I couldn’t see it myself. In recent years I have developed a love for online learning and I’ve completed a number of online courses (not accredited, but worthwhile in varying degrees nonetheless). Some of the teachers in these courses have become important mentors for me in the industry I operate in. Most of them are based in the US and I am learning new skills that would not be accessible to me without the internet. It’s provided wonderful growth for me and I am very grateful that I can grow, learn and evolve while in the comfort of my own home.
I did my first English essay in high school and got 34%. I luckily had a very perceptive teacher who came up to me privately and declared with positive glee that I was a, “Mosaic Thinker!”. I had no idea what she meant but by the tone of her voice I thought it must be great. She explained that most people put ideas into logical order in their brain and then relay either verbally or in written form the words. She said I was a very creative person and all I needed to do with my many ideas, was to write them on paper, and then look at the ideas and number them, finding common linkage and flow. She gave me a piece of paper on how to link paragraphs and another on how to do the intro, body and conclusion and said I would be fine. The next essay I did, I got 98%. The year this happened was the first external exams in high school and if one didnt pass, one would be held back. The pressure of this idea after getting 34% had initially worried me with thoughts that I was dumb and wouldn’t pass high school. This teacher transformed my life and inspired me along the path of being a teacher too, knowing that little observations can truly help the diverse learners we have before us. I use this example often, and I know it inspires people to feel there is hope especially if they have not done so well in school and are embarking on learning as an adult. It excited me to know we have untapped potential and the teacher can often be the catalyst.
I was never a confident student at school. I had, and still have, issues with reading. But in 2nd Form Sister Moira took the time to help me read more confidently and she was always patient and kind. In 5th Form Mr Bartholomews taught biology with passion and humour. He was always engaging and I found the subject fascinating. I did well in biology because it was a ‘real world’ subject. I didn’t, however, understand chemistry in 6th Form at all. I struggled with the intangible ideas, but Mr Hill, who was a quiet and patient man, would take time out of his lunch hour to help me understand (or not). Unfortunately, I failed chemistry in the HSC but Mr Hill was always encouraging and kind. I wish I could have shared with him the fact that, as a mature-age student, I achieved a High Distinction for Organic Chemistry at uni and later went on to do a PhD.
I fondly remember a couple of my teachers in Primary school, i think this was due to their warmth, i am drawn to people who have warm energy however when I went to TAFE it was my ‘food science’ teacher who I believe put me on the path I am on today, perhaps I would of found my own way in the end however he definitely sparked curiosity in me. He was very passionate not only about what he was teaching but you could see how passionate he was about his life and incorporating the two together, he would often go off course topic and I would hang on every word he was saying, never wanting the class to end. It was the first time I started asking questions instead of accepting answers. I honestly believe he influenced me to turn left on my life journey and i am forever grateful
Its so great to hear of all the wonderful things teachers have given us. I have fond memories of 4 fabulous teachers that have helped sculpt my life over the years.
My year 1 Teacher Mr Tobin was great with helping us with spelling and remembering our words. His encouragement and inclusion of all was so boosting to a young child who being left handed always muddled up my words.
My year 7 English Teacher is possibly the most influential that I ever had and I carry his philosophy with me to this day and teach my own children (and anyone that will listen) what he taught me. He told us at the very start of our High School Career that in most areas of life, English especially, that “there is no such thing as a right or wrong answer as long as you can substantiate yourself”. For me I know it has given me such an open mind and a respect for all opinions.
My Year 10 English Teacher taught me so much about respect, confidence in yourself and taking responsibility… He was great at giving freedom when it came to us choosing the genre that suited us the best.
The last would be my Year 11/12 Maths teacher. Again as a “lefty” my brain works differently in some ways. If we were learning something and I couldn’t get the “text book” way but could a different way, instead of making me follow the rules, he would give me 10 questions, if I got them all right – showing the working – then he would let me do it that way (and quite often show others who were struggling). The encouragement he gave me that as long as I was getting the answer right, and I could show it, to keep doing it my way was amazing.
Without these teachers in my life I really don’t think I’d be the person I am today..
The best Teachers are those that inspire us to be the best version of ourselves and make us believe that we can do anything if we put our mind to it.
My English teacher in high school inspired me to achieve a higher grade. She made the classes very interesting and encouraged us all on our learning journey.
Hi I loved school, I found it very rewarding. Teachers inspired me to develop my way of thinking and opened my eyes to the process of teaching and developing young students to their needs.
There were many teachers that influenced my learning at school; my French teacher was unique. She demonstrated her love and dedication to give her best at providing instructions and constantly checking the level of learning.
Furthermore, as I started learning about various philosophies of teaching and other theories that deal with the issue of assessment of students’ performance.
I support and practice Formative Assessment when teaching adult graduates from other countries to assist them in improving their skills to pass the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
I realise now that she was naturally a practitioner of Formative Assessment.
It was a pleasure at all times attending her French class and instilled in myself the love of learning more languages. now I speak 4 languages and teach English and Spanish.
Mr King will forever stick in my mind as a teacher to not only look up to but also strive to be like. He set very high standards for his students and gave them the confidence and tools to achieve these standards. I think the main thing that makes him stand out so much in my mind was that he came across as a human, another person that was sharing the same planet, breathing the same oxygen and this made him relatable. This same trait also inspired most to achieve as highly as possible because of this connection.
Another influential teacher was one of my main lectures in the graduate diploma degree. Prof Savapathy. He had a very different demeanour than Mr King he was relaxed calculated and explained things in a way that made them seem easy. Prof Savapathy or as many like to call him Sue was also very relatable and friendly.
After reading the posts above one big thing stands out. There isn’t a one size fits all to be an influential teacher. The things these influential teachers did know was how to tailor their style and approach so that students could find a common ground and become excited about learning and growing. They adapt their styles to create excitement and as other people we are draw to this and want to share in this knowledge.
During my high school years there was one teacher who was really inspiring. Mr Greenwood was my Media Studies teacher and was extremely passionate about his work, and this was really reflected by the way he taught. He had quite a unique a way of engaging with his students, I didn’t look at him as a teacher but more a friend. Mr Greenwood wasn’t the “average” teacher, he had ways of teaching that made it very interesting and enjoyable to be in his classes.
I fondly remember a couple of my teachers in Primary school, i think this was due to their warmth, i am drawn to people who have warm energy however when I went to TAFE it was my ‘food science’ teacher who I believe put me on the path I am on today, perhaps I would of found my own way in the end however he definitely sparked curiosity in me. He was very passionate not only about what he was teaching but you could see how passionate he was about his life and incorporating the two together, he would often go off course topic and I would hang on every word he was saying, never wanting the class to end. It was the first time I started asking questions instead of accepting answers. I honestly believe he influenced me to turn left on my life journey and i am forever grateful.
One of my most inspiring teachers was a linguistics lecturer, Professor H.
Professor H was not a snappy dresser – he would show up to lectures in his t-shirt and stubbies and slip on shoes. He was small, and not particularly noticeable in appearance, yet he was such a powerful speaker.
This was a man at the peak of his career. He was world-renowned in his field, but remained cheerful and approachable with a certain humility.
He was an entertaining speaker, lively and funny and he really knew his stuff.
The program which he ran was also impeccably well organised and thorough, and his colleagues worked very well as a team.
A contrast to Professor H was Dr D. Dr D had the misfortune to be in charge of a large foundation level subject which was quite boring.
He could not help that, and he was not a naturally funny or outgoing person.
What he brought to his teaching, however, was a fantastic model of how to organise your thoughts on paper, a model which he replicated himself with each lecture. He practised what he preached, and, although his subject matter was not inspiring, his methodology was one of the most important learning opportunities I have had, even if I didn’t necessarily realise it at the time.
Growing up in Coffs Harbour during the 1970’s, I was fortunate to attend a primary school that had some great teachers. One teacher in particular that I have fond memories of was Mr Eggins. Looking back I now realise that Mr Eggins had the qualities and attributes that make for a good teacher, role model and coach.
I was quite shy as a young lad, especially in the classroom. The thought of standing in front of my peers to read out loud or to make a presentation would fill me with fear and dread. Mr Eggins had the patience and demeanour to help me build my confidence and self-esteem – qualities I would need in spades to be class captain that year and school captain in my final year of primary school. And of course it also laid the foundation for employment later in life.
As a primary school kid I was a typical boy. Mostly restless and distracted during class with one eye on the wall clock and the other one peering through the window at the sun streaming down outside. My real passions lay outside the classroom, playing football, cricket and anything to do with athletics. Fortunately Mr Eggins also enjoyed his sport. He was very generous with his time and was keen to provide guidance and encouragement. The confidence I subsequently gained on the sporting and athletics fields helped me in the classroom and I thank Mr Eggins for the part he played in these formative years.
The concept of ‘yin and yang’ aptly applies to my parents. Although far from perfect (what parents are?), they did provide me with a stable, loving and mostly happy up-bringing. My father being a true Dane was a gregarious and larger-than-life individual. He taught me how to laugh things off and to interact with people with humour and in good spirits. He had a big heart, was a good judge of character and mostly let me just get on with things as I grew up.
My mother (the opposite force to my father, yet complimentary and interconnected), was more reserved and refined, which perhaps reflected her British upbringing. She taught me life skills, such as how to cook and look after myself. There was never any fuss. If I was feeling a bit off-colour and didn’t want to go to school, she’d simply say ‘you’ll be alright by elevenses’ and hurried me out the door (although this back-fired on her one day when the school rang to say that I wasn’t well with suspected tonsillitis and to please come and pick me up..).
I’m forever grateful for the duality of my parent’s influence with my upbringing. Although I certainly didn’t appreciate it at the time, I can now reflect and acknowledge how it’s provided me with life-skills to be both a husband and father and to just get on with things.
I remember very much my grade 6 teacher who was a man by the name MrPHILLIPS a hard teacher but fair who’s strong teaching ethics have helped me through life along with several high school teachers to many to mention. As i left school and started work i have had many great teachers and still have many great teachers around me as we are all learning something new all the time by people no matter how small or great the learning experience
My most memorable teachers were the ones who pushed me out of my comfort zone.
I was always trying to find the easiest of ways to get through my schooling without having to put to much effort into it.
My year 8 science teacher commended me on my observation skills when it came to working out how my caged mouse was able to escaped from his cage. This comment encouraged me to look at learning as a positive experience.
My year nine math teacher just plain terrified me into learning! Looking back it makes me wonder if he loved teaching or wanted to preserve his reputation as high achieving teacher, either way both outcomes were successful.
As a 15 year old shy student it took a lot for me to stand up in front of a class to speak. On one rare occasion I did stand and speak in front of my geography class, some class mates made negative comments about my ideas. The teacher was quick to quell the comments by saying I like the way you think.
These three teachers taught me compassion, perseverance and to venture out of my comfort zone.
When I first thought of contributing to this blog, I was concerned that no inspirational stories, such as those shared above, came immediately to mind. Then, upon reflection, several names floated to the surface of my memory, like treasures from the deep. As I explored these memories, I realised it was the incidental lessons that these teachers imparted which have made them stand out amongst the rest. It was Miss Russ, in infant school, who taught me about kindness. Mr Patterson, in high school, empowered me to have courage and conviction. In university, Professor Cullen showed me what it means to have compassion, and Professor Harrison instilled in me the value of clear communication.
These are the lessons I’ve taken with me throughout my life and, every day, it’s the people who surround me – family, friends, colleagues, even strangers, who help me to embed and apply these lessons. I believe that if you’re open to learning, everyone becomes a teacher and every experience, every interaction, can become a valuable lesson.
These are great lessons Karla, thanks for sharing.
My most memorable teacher was my Year 8 English Teacher Mr Kelly.
I remember Mr Kelly to be an older gentleman with balding grey hair who just oozed passion for teaching English. I was always excited to get to English class in eagerness to soak up everything Mr Kelly had to offer.
One particular thing that stands out in my memory is the way he would read chapters in our recommended texts. Mr Kelly was engaging and intense, and I enjoyed the experience of being able to take my mind to another place through his fantastic ability to tell a story.
Mr Kelly will always be the man responsible for my love of books and storytelling.
My Year 8 teacher kickstarted influencing me. In after school homework sessions he made ‘making a timeline’ become entertaining when he rolled out toilet paper and marked a timeline; then hung it on the board. He opened my mind to the creative ways of explaining concepts to people. But the most impressionable person I met was My Year 12 English teacher. She was a thoughtful and kind person with a lot of students yet, always had time for me. We were asked by her to choose a serious life subject to write a large essay on. The key topics for the class were – Abortion, Suicide etc. topics that related to us teenagers and had a significant impact on us. The following class she pulled me aside and asked me to walk with her into the empty room beside our classroom. She showed me to a table which was loaded with lots and lots of cut outs from newspapers. All of the newspaper clippings were about Aboriginal related issues. As the only Aboriginal student in her classes, she felt I needed to learn more about my cultural, my people, the challenges, issues and barriers that Aboriginal people faced and asked me if I wanted to write about one of these topics instead of the other topics. Her gesture was the first to manouvre me toward wanting to do more for my people. I have been Nursing and doing many other things that has helped Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and to Close the Gap. Mrs W. was the best teacher… ever.
The teacher who I recall had the biggest impact on my life was Mr McCartney. In year 4 I was in his composite class which consisted of years 4, 5 and 6; we lived in a small country town at the time and I was diagnosed with ADHD.
At the time I liked Mr McCartney but never really knew why and in retrospect he took the time to find out what my learning style wasv(kinosthetic) and as best he caught taught me that way.
When I graduated high school, I was lucky enough to be awarded an athletic scholarship to a university in America. At the very tender age of 17, I travelled across the world by myself and began tertiary education in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people. It was very daunting and frightening to say the least. With a little bit of tough love, a very clever professor took me under his wing and not only helped me with my academic pursuits, but gave me a nudge to find my feet and make my new environment a home. I made the Deans honour roll that year for academics, but more importantly (to me..) I found friends and settled into life outside of my comfort zone.
For the most part I have been extraordinarily lucky with the teachers that I have had throughout the course of my education. I had wonderful inspiring, caring teachers in primary school that taught academics alongside human compassion and community spirit. In high school I was entranced by English and introduced to Jane Austin and Pride and Prejudice. At Uni I had teachers that really cared about us as individual students (which I am assured is not the norm) and spent break times sitting and chatting with students. My great fortune is in having a teacher for my father. A teacher who truely loved his work, and who still brings open minded curiosity to everything he does.
Two events, although very small, that stand out for me were moments where I realised that I could widen the scope of my view and my expand my thinking. The memories have somehow remained clear for me over the years.
The first in primary school art class… Our guest teacher (a parent of a class mate) was teaching us how to paint trees and was showing us that you could leave gaps between your paint marks, letting the paper show through to give texture and shape to the trunk and branches. This revolutionized my thinking and made me see that what wasn’t ‘there’ was just as important as what was.
The second event occurred while I was discussion about abnormal psychology with my Professor and lecturer. My lecturer was talking about a person he was going to meet with who saw colours when hearing words – a condition described as a disorder. I made the point that rather than it being a disorder it was an extra ability and I thought there should be better term than ‘disorder’ and my lecturer immediately backed me up supporting my position in front of my Professor. This was actually a small thing but it taught me a huge lesson: that the accepted understanding of anything is not ‘set in stone’, people write books, people make mistakes, we need to adjust our understandings in the presence of new evidence, and that there are as many different ways of understanding the world, as there are people in it!
Thanks for sharing your experiences Emily, I really enjoyed reading your post and sharing in your learning.
During my high school years my health/PE teacher Mr Ebbles was the most influential teacher. Having served in the military he was a firm teacher with strict rules, but he was fair. He catered for all learning styles and helped us understand the importance of respect, honour, mateship and looking out for one another. He was always encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone and try something new and was a big advocate for volunteering in the community. He never gave up on a student, even the ones that other teachers would say were too difficult to deal with.
My Greatest teacher memory was an English teacher I had in Year 7. Miss Cleary was her name.
She was our drama teacher as well, & we had a wonderful experience, writing acting & directing our own little plays.
It was probably the first time I had the confidence to stand before my peers & allow myself to be vulnerable & be totally out of my comfort zone.
As a child from a domestic violent household, these classes allowed the escape I needed to face a very cruel world that I inhabited.
Your Miss Cleary sounds like a beautiful, intuitive person that was very invested into understanding her students and invested in the students both on a professional and personal level.
My most inspiration teacher was not my actual teacher but rather my high school principal, Mrs Maidens. She was angelic in the way that she spoke and the way in which she presented herself. Her motivational speaking was the inspirational part. Mrs Maidens had a way of speaking to a crowd and making you feel compelled to strive harder for what you wanted and what you believed in. She believed in the “greater good” and by following this motto she gave hope to her students and to her school. She was a beautiful lady who took the time out of her busy day to engage with classes and students in the playground.
A great memory Kristy. Mrs Maidens would have been a good example to staff and students. The best kind of principal to have.
I was fortunate to attend a school with many amazing teachers who all cared for me in their own way, but there’s one who takes the cake. Mr Reiher was a quirky, loud, gangly comedic type that radiated fun and clearly just genuinely loved working with kids. He was my Grade 5 home room teacher and every day was new and exciting. He sought out methods of teaching that were ‘outside the box’ and kept us from just having our heads buried in books. In particular, I have such fond memories of building a big model city as a class. We each were given a profession, there was a classroom currency, weather patterns etc. There was so much interesting learning tied up in the process, both academic and real life. For example, it’s the first time I remember coming across the concept of insurance (to protect our little homes in case of natural disaster, of course). It’s amazing to think that something from 20 years ago can still stand out so clearly in one’s mind. It goes to show the scale of the impact that teachers can have!
This is a delighful post Luke, thanks for sharing. Like many of the other posts to this BLOG it highlights the impact a teacher can have on their students.
I have been very fortunate to have had many great teachers in my life. One of the most inspirational was my Grade 1 teacher who was very gentle with me and encouraged me at every step, this gave me a love of learning.
I agree Jacinta, I always like reading a thoughtful, well written piece that will provoke thought and/or provide inspiration. This is a positive way to use social media.
my finest memory’s of a teacher was in a work environment as a hairdresser apprentice ,they were Hong Kong Chinese and had a very different way to teach , practical ,training was hard and fast lots of determination ,compassion and empathy .
The most inspirational teacher I have ever had was my TEFL Trainer, Beth. She was my first introduction to the world of teaching English as a Second Language and her passion, dedication and professionalism inspired me. Although it took me quite a while to find my feet as a teacher, and discover my own passion for teaching, it was Beth who set the standard for how a teacher, trainer and a fellow human being should be and the role we have to play in people’s lives.
In thinking about teachers that influenced, changed and guided my life, I have to start with my mother. Unfortunately she didn’t have the opportunity to complete high school and go to University, but, if she did, she would have been a Teacher. In my opinion, acknowledged I probably have some bias, she would have made a great Teacher. Some of her characteristics that I think she had that make me believe this to be true were patience, ability to really listen to what you were really saying and without you realizing it at the time, allowing you to walk away from asking a question with a purpose and direction to seek out the answer to the question yourself, rather than just being given the answer. Now in my role as a trainer of staff in a health service, these are some of the characteristics that I myself apply to training and realize on reflection that I gained these skills in the first place from my mother. Thanks Mum.
The next Teacher that influenced my life was my Grade 7 Teacher Mr Tate. Mr Tate wasn’t actually a very good Teacher from the perspective that he seemed to have a standard lesson plan, which he delivered with the same method to everyone in the class and in reviewing and marking tests/lessons, the result you got in a test or exam would have been related to whether you understood well, or not, the information presented, rather than as a direct influence from Mr Tate’s teaching. The standard, old fashion one-way delivery of teaching, which was the ‘normal’ schooling style in the 70’s. However, he added into his lessons and classes informal conversations and comments around learning being part of life. This one concept, which I now look on as being most valuable, has to be attributed, at least in part, to my Grade 7 Teacher.
The final teacher in my life was my previous manager, Ms M. In a workplace, doing a job for which you are being paid, you sometimes forget that the job can be looked on as being just a job to make ends meet or can be a most wonderful opportunity to spend the day learning. Having someone constantly challenging your thinking and decisions, constantly asking is this the best way to do something, or is there a better/quicker way or constantly asking what do you think and really being interested in your opinion, inspires you to constantly think and learn and seek out information. It also means, when you reflect on it, that you have been taught something new today from someone who took the time and effort to allow you to learn and I think that is a quality that makes a good Teacher. As a result, Ms M most definitely has to therefore be in the top 3 Teachers most influential in my life.
During school I was not the most dedicated student and admittedly not the easiest of students to get along with or a student that took well to following instruction. However I was lucky to have one teacher called Mrs Dickon’s. Mrs Dickon’s was my English and History teacher from year 7 to my final year in year 12. Throughout this time Mrs Dickon’s always made me feel like I was a valuable part of the classroom and to be honest probably was a little bias and more lenient on my classroom antics (class clown). She would often bribe me, secretly of course, with promises of chocolate at break times to complete set tasks and ensure that I did not interrupt the learning in her room. Although this was originally a great gimmick in my mind and ensured a regular intake of chocolate I actually began to learn and become less of interruption to others learning. Eventually the chocolates stopped and payment turned in to decent marks and self satisfaction.
During this time Mrs Dickon’s would always encourage my potential and comment on how the future is not dictated by someone’s past but by what they do in each moment of every day. During one of these many chats Mrs Dickson’s came to support me in a meeting I had with the school principal about my behaviour and I was potentially looking at a long suspension. She told me that I need to work on my timing. I looked at her and thought, what is she talking about? She followed on to say, “Scott you need to manage the time between the stimulus and your response”. These few simple words did not mean a lot to me back then but as time went on I would often reflect on what Mrs Dickson’s said during this meeting and finally realised that we all have time to consider how we react or respond before we are met with something that challenges us. Simple concept but such an important part of everyday life.
Sadly Mrs Dickon’s passed away some time back I never got the chance to let her know how she had impacted positively on my life and how I still remember those few simple words that I still try and live by each day. Some times as trainers, mentors, teachers and positions of leadership we can make a huge difference in people we lead, train and educate. Sometimes this can happen through a few simple word or actions.
Not all teachers reside in classrooms, sometimes the teacher can be the person we work with, live with or hang out with.
As a chef i find the teacher to be a group of chefs/owners who have passed on their knowledge and experience to me.
Beginning with Old Sam and his son Jim who showed me not only the basics in cooking but how to present myself on the plate. (clean tidy plate means clean tidy chef/kitchen)
Another owner called Sam who really opened the door for me in the chef world. Sam spend a few years honing my skill set while teaching me the economics of running a business.
The 2 Sam’s where like fathers figures. Kind to a young man, but also firm.
One other man worth a mention would be Tony. Great man, great chef, but he was the original Gordon Ramsey. Tony brought fire to every kitchen he entered and also the fiery temper. He taught me how to be tough in the kitchen and never to quit.
Though all the teachers i have had and still have during my career i have learned some really valuable lessons, but the most important lesson i learned was.
Always remember the important things people teach you and forget the bad.
Wow, this one for me is hard. I had many influential teachers through out my school life. The most influential would have been through out High School.
I had a rocky up bringing, my parents sat me down at the end of year 10 and said ” Nicole you are to dumb to go onto year 11 and 12, do yourself a favour and go out and get a job.”( I was an average student) I had wanted to be a nurse, just like my mum for as long as I could remember. This as you could imagine was quite a confidence breaker.
With out the faith and the confidence my high school teachers instilled in me I would not have succeeded to go on and become and Enrolled Nurse.
Since that time I have gone on to do many things, However I did come back to doing my diploma in Community services( working in Community Aged Care as a lifestyle Facilitator) which as lead me to the path of now working as an Education Support Officer for TAFE NSW.
This has now opened the door for me to complete this course in Assessment in training in the hope that I can go on to teach and hopefully instil the same faith and confidence to inspire my students to go on and do great things.
Not to bad for someone who was to dumb to go on to year 11 and 12 I would say.
I am lucky enough to have very fond memories of most of my schooling, with majority of the teachers being passionate, supportive and motivating.
The 2 people that made the most positive impact in my schooling and my life were my primary school principle Mr Whetton and my 5th grade teacher Mrs Stewart.
While both were passionate and motivating teachers, it was their kindness, support and empathy that has stayed with me through my life.
From a young age I would write cards and letters to Mr Whetton and show him work that I completed in class. Even though, he was running the school and extremely busy, each and every time he would hand write a note and deliver it back to me. Even after my schooling Mr Whetton would call into my work place to ‘catch-up’ on what was happening in my life and see how I was going. I treasure these inspiring notes and often read back though them.
Mrs Stewart was very similar, she always took the time to listen and support me in school matters and personal ones and we have stayed in contact to this very day.
Sometimes it is not just about what what a student is being taught, but knowing they have support, they are valued and respected can be just as significant in their learning journey.
Thank you for sharing this inspiring story. It made me remember my math teacher, which I did not like and my Literature teacher, that went far and beyond to read us books that were not in the curriculum.
Thank you for the shared stories about teachers who have influenced you all. The teacher who has left the greatest impression on me was my first Anatomy teacher Joel Morrell.
After completing high school I was unsure about what direction to take so took a gap year; during this time I got the travel ‘bug’ in big way and continued travelling for another six years. It was in my mid-20’s I decided to begin studying for a Diploma of Remedial Massage (DRM) and having been out of the classroom so long it was not an environment where I felt entirely comfortable. Some of the first classes I did for the DRM were Joel’s lessons in anatomy and physiology; he was so knowledgeable and passionate about the human body it was infectious (excuse the pun). Whilst the information he presented was incredibly challenging I was determined to excel and committed to large amounts of reading outside the classroom in order to understand it. This culminated in me achieving a score of 100% for one of the exams and I still recall the conversation I had with Joel when he told me the grade. He told me how happy he was with my grade, that I was destined for greater things and should think about further study. I wasn’t a great student at school and had never really considered University study as an option; however the conversation with Joel stuck with me and upon completing the DRM I enrolled in University. I really thrived at University and was eventually offered a scholarship to undertake an Honours Thesis. The conversation with Joel all those years prior left such an impression that I mentioned him in the acknowledgements section of the Thesis document that I submitted to the University.
Mr little, year 10 Mathematics, helped me understand and simplify mathematics.
Mr Johns, provided e with guidance during some rough times at school.
Miss Thomas, explained English easily to understand and supported you through each subject.
Gosh – wish I had had a maths teacher like him. A good teacher can make the difference between a person loving or hating a subject.
My Fifth Form Social Studies Teacher Mr Riley was the teacher I recall from my early years of education. He had the ability to provoke debate to enhance our learning, challenge our views and embrace other cultures and beliefs.
It was so long ago since I was at school, so long ago that capital punishment eg: the cane, was part of the school discipline.
So on a much happier and positive note I will talk about my daughter’s experience.
When she first started school she was only there for the 1st term then we moved far away, her new school was very daunting for me but not her, her teacher took her by the hand and introduced her to everyone in the class individually and also to all the other class rooms in the school, it was a very small country school. This gave Carly the confidence to concur her fears of the unknown and there was no stopping her after this. Over the years Carly got lost with peer pressure then her studies feel, she changed schools often but that was not the solution. Then one day I heard about our local University having a program for year 10,11 & 12 students, where they can attend their final years at school. This school treated the students like adults, this is what Carly needed. Over the first few months was new and somewhat confronting for her (respect for the students) this is something that she hadn’t experienced in a long time. Then it was something that the year adviser told them “if you want to learn we will teach you, when, where and how long. It is up to you”. Carly walked into school one day and said to all of her teachers “I am ready to learn now, do you believe in miracles cause that’s what it is going to take for me to get better than a D”. 6 months into her first year there (year 11) she started tutoring lessons in all of her subjects, she would start school an hour earlier, tutor at lunch time and stay back after school for 1 hour. Her teachers gave her the time, encouragement and respect to make her understand & improve everyday. When Carly was at the end of year 12 she was excepted into University on a principle recommendation for her efforts. Her final marks were outstanding and she achieved what she first set out to do and more, A’s in all of her subjects. I strongly believe that if it was not for her teachers at the University with their belief in her and her teacher in kindergarten (Mrs Powell) giving her the confidence, then she would not be where she is today (An Emergency Nurse) saving lives.
This is a wonderful story about your daughter’s journey Julie. Thanks for sharing.
The change to the local University provided opportunities for Carly and they were ready to embrace her to start that journey. I still have goosebumps reading how your daughter asked if they believed in miracles. They certainly did!
A beautiful story and look where Carly is today, an Emergency Nurse. Well done Carly.
There have been several influential teachers in my past. In year 6 Mr Crossley made me earn my pen license – I was a very messy hand writer and often my answers to questions were marked wrong because he just couldn’t decipher my hieroglyphs. He introduced me to calligraphy of all things in a bid to improve the level of my output. It worked of course, his passion was transferred to me through the flowing ink and I came to love calligraphy. On the way, I got better at hand writing and that has stayed with me all my life.
In my first year at High School it was Mr Swan who earned my admiration. He was a very stern old-school mathematics teacher who would enter his class in silence and simply stand at his desk in front of the class. He would wait for as long as it took, until the room fell silent and still, before he spoke. He would then explain that he would not waste his students time with words of discipline as too much time has already been wasted. He would then commence teaching. By the end of the term – students were shushing each other even before he entered the room. The idea that time is precious in all parts of life has stayed with me.
Passion, knowledge and mutual respect have been key to me – but I also think teachers need to get a kick out of helping other people be successful in order to be great teachers.
I don’t really remember my primary school teachers all that well and my teachers at high school, all but one, really let me down.
Mrs. Alison was my English teacher for year 8 or 9.
I was a “naughty” child though I also happened to be very good at English but lacked the enthusiasm for school and learning in general.
Mrs. Alison could see my potential and gave me chance after chance to redeem myself. I was a surly little emo kid, but she used to always take the time to tell me how clever I was and that I could do so much with my life. I never did get myself together at that school, but once I left and went to a different school for Year 11 and 12 I took that encouragement with me and did really well in my HSC.
I’ll have to find her one day and let her know she made a difference.
The teacher who made an impact on my life would definitely be Mr Youssef, who was my Chemistry teacher. He always took the time and effort to make sure you understood everything, even if it meant one on one sessions after school during his own time.
He had multiple ways to teach, so if some of us wouldn’t understand the “traditional” method he always would come up with different ways to communicate with us and would adapt to us.
He was a class favourite and even 10 years later I still remember how much passion he had for his craft.
There were several teachers who were influential in my life but the one I remember most was Mr Breen. He was strategically gruff and had a reputation as being strict and harsh. I had him for English and he was indeed both strict and harsh but the trait I remember most was one that he was not widely known for.
My school was a boarding school and in my first year there my Grandmother died. I was fourteen years old and found out about it on the public phone. I burst into tears and immediately went to an area that was out of bounds at night as I knew this was somewhere I could be alone. Mr Breen approached me and asked why I was ‘out of bounds’ and I told him what had happened. He took it in silently and then walked over and stood next to me, stared off into the distance and told me how he knew how I felt – his twenty year old son had died the year before.
He was a teacher but in that moment he was also a parent. A grieving parent. We talked for about half an hour and after that night we had such a strong mutual respect. I guess he taught me about resilience but he also taught me about empathy. All are traits that I value highly to this day.
Simon, tears welled up in my eyes when I was reading the original post, yours sent them rolling down right away. I can still vividly remember some conversations I had with some teachers that greatly influenced my life, and I often find that I interpret new meanings into their words as I get older. Some were words of encouragement and some were of criticism, but they helped shape who I am today. I visited one of them recently and told her that I still remember our chat from 25 years ago, and what impact it still has on me now. She laughed and said she had forgotten all about it. But this is what makes the role of a teacher so sacred, their seemingly trivial words and actions bearing huge weight on the minds of students, and they will carry them for the rest of their lives.
I have fortunately had many good and great teachers throughout my life, in both my formal schooling and extra-curricular activities. There are too many to be able to name them all.
However, someone who has almost definitely had a permanent impact on me is Mr Dallimore, who was my year 11 and 12 modern history teacher. He has an absolute passion for the subject, and this passion was infectious. Mr Dallimore was able to get us all engaged and motivated about learning the content, but also to develop a deeper love and interest in his subject. He shared experiences of his own travels and learnings, and encouraged all of us to go out and explore the wider world after we finished school.
In the classroom he took time to get to know each and every student, and when assessments rolled around he also took the time to give us personalised feedback and encouraged us to improve and develop our knowledge for next time.
Laura, This teacher was a great role model for everyone aspiring to be a VET trainer.
You have summed up the key things that make for excellence in teaching.
There is no ‘one’ teacher for me that stands out above the rest in terms of influence. However, in my early years I had a lot of support from my teachers. I wasn’t the best student (good kid, very disruptive) but my teachers always stood by me, believing in my potential. Every parent teacher night was the same. My marks were ordinary, I’m not doing my homework or I’m not productive in class but it was always followed by a generous comment about my ability but I’m not applying myself. Looking back now it seems like it was a plea to my parents to spark something in me. I’m thankful to my teachers for giving me more time than they needed to. Sometimes just having someone believe in you gets you through. I do wonder what they’d think if they saw me now. My approach to life is a stark contrast to when I was at school and I hope they’d be glad to know their faith in my ability wasn’t misplaced.
I had good teachers and thank them for playing a major part in enabling me to attain my goals. My daughter is in Year 1 and her current class teacher is an excellent teacher. Although she is stern, she is caring and shows empathy to all her students. I can see a big difference she has made to my daughter’s personality as she has become more confident, responsible and has marked improvement in her academic result.
The most inspiring teacher from my younger days that I would like to mention was strict, harsh and often a little intimidating but it was his teaching style that got me the grades. His name was Mr Archibald and he was my year 8 & 9 mathematics teacher. He never wrote notes or formulas on the whiteboard but instead would ask us to write them down as he said them aloud. I look back to this now and think his method was fantastic. He never repeated anything which definitely would keep our attention and we were forced to think about what we were writing down. He may of given me detentions for quite silly reasons and often would talk about the old days when he was able to use a cane and the level of discipline that was available to him but he did have such a passion for mathematics and teaching that I can appreciate.
Wow Jess! And I notice you finish with talking about his passion for mathematics and teaching – which I believe is the most important thing whether you are a teacher or a VET trainer.
Styles of teaching can be different but the passion always needs to be there.
I distinctly remember my Year 11 Geography High School teacher Allan Hatte. He was so passionate about geography and Australia in particular. He used to bring in his slides of his days travelling and jump on the desks singing and dancing. He was so well loved and respected by his students. When he passed away recently it was a testament to him and his teaching that so many of his past students attended his funeral.
The most influential teacher in my life was probably my year 7 coordinator who was the one of the most kind hearted and happy person I have ever met. She was so welcoming and all ways had the biggest smile on her face, she made everyone feel special and took the time do get to know all of us. I guess the reason why she stands out is the way she connected with me and taught me to go about life staying positive even in stressful situations
I have always thought Scott that a real teacher is born – not made. If you have been born with natural empathy and truly caring, then you will be a good teacher. If you haven’t, no amount of training will turn you into one.
I recall repeating Year 3 because of ear infections and tonsillitis for most of the year. Miss Lollback said that because I had missed a lot of school and possibly not being able to hear completely that I had trouble pronouncing many vowels.
So during my second time of Year 3, I remember every Friday morning Miss Lollback or Lollie-legs was what we called her as she had long legs, would select a few students to go out to the front and read out aloud to the class and I was ALWAYS selected EVERY Friday.
Sometimes I would try and tell my mother that I was sick on Fridays but she knew. And now when I reflect, if it was not for Miss Lollie-legs pushing me to read in front of everyone, I think I would of had a lot of challenges through my schooling years.
So in a round about way, thank you.
My school life was mostly very pleasant, but I have to admit there is not one teacher who really stands out for me in a warm way as others have written. I have had many examples shown to me of the ways not to teach and those examples are incredibly helpful, particularly when I reflect on how some teacher’s made me feel. Maya Angelou once said ‘…people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ My son who graduated from high school in 2016 and was privileged to be a student of a wonderful example of a teacher who imparted his deep knowledge and love of mathematics. This teacher had an incredible ability to get to know and get to the heart of each and every student he taught. My son would say that this teacher was very strict (with a National Service background!), having a high expectation of his students to acheive their best as an education is an amazing opportunity. He also said that he was very kind and understanding of every student in his class. He knew what each student was interested in, what they struggled with and how best to encourage them. He nurtured their potential and they all knew he cared about them.
That is the kind of teacher who inspires me. Seeing my son’s face light up when he spoke about this teacher was very gratifying. I knew he was in safe hands. I want my students to feel they are in safe hands too.
Teachers that have been influential to me over the years stand out from all the others purely by the way they made me feel. In my first year of high school I had a maths tutor who eased my anxiety by learning all about me and making me laugh and feel comfortable learning and asking questions as we went.
The next teacher that comes to mind would be my high school english teacher that encouraged me to explore my creative side and express myself.
My most favourite teacher has been an on the job teacher. This teacher gave me confidence and practical skills which I use today.
Leanne, fantastic to hear that the practical skills you still use today.
It is difficult to say with certainty which one teacher has been the most inspiring or most influential. Having had many teachers from many fields, the ones that resonate most are the ones who have imparted real life, practical advice to me.
In high school our metal work teacher, Mr Moncrieff, was an older man of short stature, grey hair and a furrowed brow. His standard ensemble was a dark blue (presumably asbestos-lined) jacket and welding boots accompanied by a piercing gaze, one that without hesitation could stare down an army drill sergeant. He had a booming voice with the power of a thousand public address systems. He was absolutely terrifying.
They say your reputation enters the room before *you* do and Mr Moncrieff’s was no exception. Nobody was going to muck around with this bloke. As high school teenagers we were keen to test the limits, but not in his class. He wasted no time in explaining that most items in the rooms were dangerous-come-potentially lethal. The ground-rules were set pretty quickly and unsurprisingly the class worked like a well-oiled machine. No games or gossip; just make your colourful tray or dog tag and get out. But the man was practical. He taught us the subtle difference in how a change of elbow angle while polishing a piece of ABS plastic would be the difference between ripping your arm off – or not. Arguably extreme, but practical.
Slowly, I found him to be patient. He was encouraging by about year ten (four years from having first met the guy) we developed a good rapport. The turning point was when he inspected a small surfboard I had fashioned and mused, “Mmm. That is a good job. Yes. A good job.” It wasn’t – it looked like something a recycling bin spat back out but importantly, the recognition was was there and I stuck with his classes. As time carried on he would occasionally share a joke with us. He had some really funny gear too, but would never divert his gaze from the 10,000 RPM polishing wheel with the dubious-looking safety guard.
I suppose it’s fair to expect teachers to take all forms. Perhaps it sounds trite; Mr Moncrieff was not the kindly-worded, soft spoken nurturing type, but he taught me about mechanical safety. And he embodied the ‘Three Fs” – firm, fair, and (on even seldom occasion) fun.
What a beautiful story about two very influential women.
The key words I take from your story Laura are ‘practice’, ‘passion’ and ‘creative’.
I believe as a teacher these are some of the most important things that need to be passed on to students.
Teachers who influenced my life forever – I have been fortunate enough to have many influential teachers in my life. However, those who taught me the most or influenced my life the greatest were not traditional teachers within the education system. One that immediately comes to mind is my Piano teacher, Mrs bloom who taught me from 6 years old to 12 years old. I had 2 lessons per week with Mrs Bloom, at her house in the local area that I grew up in. She was an older lady, whom I felt very comfortable with but also highly respected, she had an unspoken way of enforcing rules and expectations upon me without having to be harsh or forceful, I knew what was expected and I liked her far too much to ever disappoint. We would have two, one hour lessons each week. She taught me how important it was to practice to improve your skills, to be precise and most importantly be passionate about what I was doing. Mrs bloom moved interstate and that is when I truly noticed my love for her as a teacher, as i regret to say I am now 26 and have not continued piano lessons, I don’t believe i will ever find someone to compare to Mrs Bloom but i also now exactly what she would say to me “Learning is what you make it of Laura”.
Another influential teacher in my life has been my Aunty Kathleen. Kath shares the same passions as i do, Literature, Teaching and Psychology. Kath used to be a University Lecturer before working for the government and now at 57 years old has returned to university to study counselling and Psychology. Throughout VCE I studied both Literature and Psychology. Kath was my main mentor, my greatest supporter and my strongest competition. She taught me how to write and be creative, how to structure essays and put together responses. I will forever treasure our catch ups that continue to teach me so much.
I definitely had many influential teachers throughout Primary and High school whom will stay in my memories forever However, these are two teachers who were a part of my life in a different way.
A beautiful story about two teachers who have influenced your life.
Amazing results when you have a passion for what you do.
I have fond though distant memories of my Year 6 teacher and my Year 10 English teacher. I don’t remember too much about the content of their classes but I strongly recall feeling valued and respected as a student.
In more recent times, I’ve really enjoyed the teaching in a Language Development subject from Uni. The teacher provided relevant and authentic material and examples to help explain new concepts. The class activities were varied and enabled learning interactions between students in class and online. Feedback on particular assessment tasks was constructive and timely. It was a nurturing and stimulating learning experience.
The teacher who I found most inspiring during my time at school was my Grade 2 teacher, Mrs Green. She was an older, stern woman, with crazy curly grey hair. She was very strict, stern, and sometimes even “scary”. But, as strict as she was, she was also equally caring and passionate. Mrs Green’s main passion was science, and was constantly planning hands on science activities, that had us thinking outside of the box and embracing our creativity.
I have many fond memories in Mrs Greens classroom whether it be growing mushrooms in the cupboard, raising a family of fish, keeping an ice cube frozen in a container I designed, or creating an interactive poster about water usage.
Mrs Green taught me that learning can be fun, interactive, and embrace creativity. She taught me that all students have their individual strengths that can be drawn upon. I learnt that not all learning in school is from a book. She encouraged us to approach us with our own ideas and think outside the box.
*approach her with our own ideas and think outside the box.
A beautiful, inspiring story about your Grade 2 teacher Laura. Thank you for sharing. Teachers like Mrs Green we never forget.
What a great experience Karena, and amazing how one teacher has changed your whole outlook on reading and learning. It must have been very special if you still remember the reading nook and the colour of the tablecloth. I enjoyed reading of your experience.
I remember up until grade 3 I hated reading. We were always made to sit down and have reading time for half an hour each day where we had to select a pre-determined book and read through it then report on it. At the time I could not understand why they were making me do this – what was the point?- I thought. I resented being made to do something that I could not see the value of, after all I could read fine…
However in grade three I met Mrs Davies – and the way she taught was magical. Literally. She read to the whole class the book ‘Harry Potter’, but it was not the book itself that I enjoyed at the time, it was the experience. Rather than forcing me to read a book I had no interest in with no explanation as to why she took the time to set up the environment. She made a corner of the classroom a ‘reading nook’ with cushions on the ground and a purple table cloth and actually showed to us the experience that reading could be, and I was in raptures. Suffice to say that ever since that experience you will be hard pressed to find me without a novel in my hands. And it is this that I attribute to my love of learning and Academia.
I went to thirteen different schools in three different countries until I finished my HSC. It’s really hard to choose which teachers had a big influence on my education, but perhaps my first two years were the building blocks of my foundation in learning. How could I ever forget Mrs Kelso teaching us how to read, and Mrs Darby who taught us numbers. Their lessons have always stuck in my mind and helped me right from the beginning, so that whenever I was a “new girl” at yet another school, the adjustments kicked in so that I could catch up with the new peer groups.
Anne I’m surprised you can remember any one teacher in so many different schools. It seems to suggest that these two teachers were really memorable.
I suspect that the changes you experienced made you very resilient. “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”.
Your comment also reinforces the importance of literacy and numeracy, as a building block for all other learning.
Amber, from what you say, I think you are a natural teacher, because you found yourself helping others when you were at school.
It would be interesting to ask those people who have a passion for teaching, training, coaching and mentoring whether they have a similar history of helping others to learn when they were at school.
I have a feeling there’s a correlation here.
There are so many fond memories of teachers in this blog it is quite heartwarming to read. I can also associate with some not so fond stories of teachers who leave their mark on a child due to a lack of care or patience also.
This question has taken me back to year three, at a small rural public school in 1983. Since then I have seen my own children go through school life and each had their favourite teacher, mine though, was Miss Prentice an no one came close to her.
Miss Prentice was new to the school and no one knew much about her, over the year though she was to make her mark and every child wanted to be in her class.
Miss Prentice must have been in her early thirties at this stage, she was soft and funny with a quirky sense of humour. I remember every morning looking to the chalk board with anticipation as she would draw beautiful, coloured murals with instructions of how the day was going to pan out. Every mural filled the whole board and made those spelling lists and maths tasks blend into oblivion.
Miss Prentice was musical and loved nothing more than a spontaneous sing along. As she played her guitar we would match her voice with enthusiasm and vigor. She based every task on the ability to create “warm fuzzies” whether it be in ourselves through pride or towards others through positive actions. I don’t ever remember her yelling but she could be stern if need be.
Most of all I remember she gave out scratch and sniff stickers! This was a whole new level of reward to us. She didn’t just give out the one type either, she had so many it was total excitement to open the page and see what sticker you had received then lean over and see what sticker your friend had been given. They were all different and I don’t think any one ever went without a sticker, for that would be absolute devastation.
For many years after I was set on becoming a teacher, I thank Miss Prentice for instilling that in me and I would certainly look to her for inspiration.
Thanks
Rebecca
This is a great story Bec and one would hope that everyone could have a Miss Prentice as their teacher for at least 1 year.
What an interesting and thought-provoking question. I’ve really had to reflect back deeply on my time in institutions to pluck some examples from my hazy memory! I would not say that the majority of my examples were of stellar or exemplary teaching, unfortunately.
I do remember my yr 8 teacher, Mrs Griffin, being wonderfully supportive of my love of reading. She allowed me time in English class to read independently whilst the class completed other work, aware that the set work was too easy for me.
Similarly, I remember my yr 11 English Teacher Mrs Stasiukynas urging me to apply for English Extensions 1 & 2 for my HSC, which I did do, and enjoyed immensely – particularly the opportunity to compose my own major work of a small novella (30,000 words).
As an example of poor teaching I recall the day my dreadful yr 9 Science teacher, Mr Whitehouse, pulled me up out of my chair by my ponytail because I’d been helping the boy next to me, Jack, with his work (Jack was dyslexic and had learning difficulties). Following this incident and particularly in my postgraduate teaching studies I have learnt of the value of peer-assisted learning, and supporting/facilitating this amongst my students wherever practicable.
I always remember my middle school teacher, Mr Street. He was a science teacher and really extended you as a student, it was so much fun in his class. I made some of my best friends during those two years.
In Primary school there were several teachers who were great role models and educators but it was my Maths teacher in Year 10 who encouraged me the most. Maths isn’t my best subject but every day she said something positive to me … I ended up getting the lowest mark for Maths in my HSC but in saying that, I totally believed I could do it and I owe that to Mrs Maclaren.
During my high school years, my most influential teacher would have to be Miss Channing. I remember her with a kind face and warm heart.
She would often take the time to explain things to me individually. During this time I went away on a family holiday but before I left Miss Channing tasked me with completing a ‘journal’ of my travels and experience.
I remembered this being and daunting task, however, I discovered along the way that it became the best holiday ever. I researched places I had been and collected memorabilia and collated them all into a scrapbook. When I returned I presented this to Miss Channing.
Even though it wasn’t part of my ‘school marks’, Miss Channing graded it an A+. This taught me to cherish and pay attention to places that I go because there might be things that you find interesting.
What great story Helena. It goes to show the importance of thinking outside the square. Miss Channing clearly was a very inspirational teacher.
Wow, so many people have had some very inspirational teachers! I always had great teachers in both primary and high school. My favourite was Mr Torpey, who taught me for years 3 and 4. He encouraged us to do the best we could in everything and to support our friends who needed extra help with their lessons. I guess this is where I learned to enjoy sharing what I had learned and spent a lot of time tutoring my friends . Knowledge is only valuable when shared.
You make a good point Sharon. Sometimes we learn better when we teach others. I went to school in England. We had a class of 44 pupils and it was a low socio-economic area. My teacher used to ask me to help other pupils who were struggling with reading. Maybe that’s where my passion for training comes from!
So your keywords Alisha are:
*passionate
*kind and
*nurturing
These seem to me to be a good start on a list of keywords that describe a truly great teacher (whether schoolteacher, university tutor or VET trainer).
I had some really lovely teachers in high school. They were all quite passionate about what they were teaching, which is great to see. I remember two of my English teachers were especially very kind and nurturing to the students. My IT teacher was a very kind man also who took time to help anyone who was struggling.
I hold my grade 4 teacher Mrs W in very high regard. Mrs W always spoke in a soft but firm manner, a softness similar to my mothers. Going to school was always fun, she would always develop unique strategies to assist you in areas of difficulty or self doubt.
I had difficulty fitting in as a new student at the school, she would often come and find me in the school yard just to check I was enjoying my recess or lunch.
Mrs W was exceptionally passionate about teaching, and it has always stuck with me how much easier it was to learn when the person teaching enjoyed what they were doing.
I still remember her little rhymes for times tables and fractions, 20 years later I still sing them in my head if I have a mental blank.
Gabrielle, it’s amazing what a difference a teacher like Mrs W can make. I notice you say she was exceptionally passionate about teaching. If you look at many of the other comments in this discussion, you will see that a passion for teaching is a theme that runs through the whole discussion.
I’ve always said that good teachers are born – not made. Teaching is a vocation – not just a job – and to do it well you must have a passion for it.
I so agree with the comment that good teachers are born – not made. Same goes for Coaches and Leaders. And without passion you have nothing.
The teacher I had for Grades 4, 5 and 6 was Mr Brown. He was a very tall, large man and had a big beard and glasses. He spoke loudly and sneezed even louder. Initially I was quite scared of him, everyone was, and I tried really hard with my school work just so that I wouldn’t get in trouble. After a while I realised that I was trying really hard because I wanted to, because I wanted to do a good job for him and I wanted him to be proud of me. Mr Brown was no nonsense. He was very strict, but fair and gave praise where it was warranted. He was extremely passionate about birds and sports and history and treated everyone equally, boys and girls, young and old, fast and slow. He would always be found on the side lines at the school sports barracking for us louder than our own parents. He encouraged us all to do our best, and we always wanted to do our best. He encouraged us to be inquisitive and to find things out for ourselves and expected nothing less than our very best at all times. He expected good manners and respect both for him and our classmates. He really was one in a million.
I have kept in touch with Mr Brown over the years. To this day I am still proud to tell him of my achievements and I often thank him for everything he did for me.
Hannah I am so glad you have kept in touch with Mr Brown over the years. This kind of teacher is so rare, so valuable – and deserves to be thanked.
After reading the post and everyone’s responses I began to wonder who that special teacher in my life has been and I had trouble deciding! The teachers that I remember the most clearly were those that I had in primary school and those that I had in Year 11 and 12. Those in between are a little blurry!
There are two teachers that stand out most clearly in my mind and coincidentally I had both of them in Year 3 but at two different schools. Moving schools (and states) was the norm for me throughout my primary and secondary education.
My first Year 3 teacher was Mr. Hughes and he was fantastic. He drove a blue van and was so rock n’ roll that he wore sunglasses inside! It turned out that he had an eye condition that meant he needed to wear sunglasses inside but to an 8 year old these things are not understood. Mr. Hughes was so much fun, he played guitar all the time and used to sing times tables and old rock n’ roll hits to the class. The one I remember most clearly was ‘Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini’. Once a week we also had times tables races, you could compete to see who could recite a times table the fastest and your name would be recorded on the blackboard as the record holder for that week.
In stark contrast to Mr. Hughes was Mrs. Ryan. I’d known Mrs. Ryan since I first started primary school and she was known for being strict. After spending 6 months in the tropics with my sunglass wearing, guitar wielding rock star teacher, my first day in Mrs. Ryan’s class was the exact opposite. It was a cold, rainy day in the middle of July but ominous weather aside, I loved having her as my teacher. In hindsight I can see that she was probably just an introvert like me and enjoyed a quiet, structured day, funnily enough also like me! At that time my brother and I ended up in the same class as we were only a year apart and Mrs. Ryan made sure we were settled back into our old school and picking up our old friendships. It was also in her class that we first learned to use computers. The school had a small number of laptops and would take turns touch typing with a tea towel over our hands; ‘The quick sly fox jumped over the lazy brown dog.’ Funny how these small things that happen to us when we’re young feel so significant later on!
Ali – what a contrast between these two teachers. Mr Hughes knew that we learn best when we are having fun. Mrs Ryan knew that, in order to learn, a student must feel secure.
In other ways both these teachers were very similar – they both truly cared about you not just as “students” but as actual human beings.
Teachers – particularly those teaching the young – have a huge responsibility. As you mentioned “Funny how these small things that happen to us when we’re young feel so significant later on!”
I have good memories of a teacher I had in high school he was a science teacher Mr white, one lesson in particular I remember he showed us a “cool card” it was a laminated card that had your name on it that was labled cool card, I was a big deal to receive one just like when you received your pen licence. he told a story of how he had given one to a student years ago and how this student approached him many years later that he had held on the the card this hole time I how ever have lost my card but he was my favourite teacher he made lesson fun and I always enjoyed them. He had a great way to teach a lesson.
Bec – I like your Mr White’s approach. He was treating you like “real people” rather than just a number – and of course we respond so much better when we feel that we are valued.
You also said he made the lessons fun. That’s a good point. We learn best when we enjoy learning.
When you begin to train your hospitality trainees, some of them may not have been happy at school so will be negative about learning. You will have to get them out of that mind-set at the start and make them feel valued, the way Mr White did with you.
I have two teachers that I remember quite well.
One was in primary school, in Grade 5, his name was Mr Robertson. He encouraged us as a group to explore and grow, to be imaginative and use what we had to our strengths. It was around the time of the South Korean Olympics, so we were doing a project about words and actions and then linking them to what was going on at the time. He was very encouraging and supportive.
The second was a TAFE teacher, Georgy. I was returning to study after a 10 year absence, wanting to learn something different outside of the work that I was doing. He was strict and at first quite frightening. On the first day, first lesson he made us all sit an exam to understand our base knowledge in criminal justice and he used that base knowledge to build our strengths. As a mature age student I could understand the learning curve that was needed for this subject was quite steep, but achievable. Georgy was understanding, fierce, expecting but also phenomenally dedicated to his work. He would answer any question, even if you thought it was a silly one, to make you understand the course and what we were learning. I was ecstatic to get a 98% for one of the final exams I sat at the end of semester! Since then I have contacted him a number of times and had lunch and a chat, he has been a great mentor.
Beth – your comment shows that great teacher/trainer/mentor/coaches come in many forms.
Mr Robertson clearly realised the importance of linking learning to something real that has meaning for the learner.
Georgy’s approach was to challenge his learners – which I thoroughly approve of. I believe that when you challenge your learners and they succeed, this provides a sense of achievement and motivation.
I have fond memories of my Year 3 teacher, Mr Rodley. He just had a natural way of making learning fun to the point you didn’t realize you were working. His love of literature cemented my already growing love of reading, every afternoon he would read a story and every student hung off every word or expression. I currently am a parent helper in my children’s classroom and some of the teachers are inspiring, by how they delivery their material and make the learning in real terms that the children can use in their everyday lives.
Teachers can definitely shape our desire to learn more and it is wonderful to have so many different techniques and personalities to bring out the best in our educational journey.
Melissa, there are so many schoolteachers who become jaded and just go through the motions. So it’s great to hear about one who made learning fun – and that’s because he saw learning as fun.
I also had a teacher in primary school who used to read to us. It prompted my own love of reading. He would stop at an exciting point in the story (to be continued) but I couldn’t wait so I would get a copy of the book and read it myself.
A great teacher is inspirational – changes lives.
Picture this………….I enter a large room, the music is pumping, the atmosphere is stimulating and the trainer has this big smile on his face. I feel excited, my feet want to dance but I’m feeling fear and there are butterflies in my stomach and my hands are a little shaky, this subject is a bit out of my league (LEADERSHIP).
Fast forward to that night, the next morning, next week, next month, next year and now five (5) years later. As I retell my experience and learning from that room on that day, to anyone who would care to listen, I can here my voice filled with passion about my topic, I recall passing on links to youtube videos we viewed, I step through processes to my audience like they are mine. I want to teach them everything I learned in that one day into a 20min conversation.
Now that was a great learning experience!
I want to be this teacher!
Peri – That sounds like a truly enthusiastic teacher, and they are the best! As you say, it makes us want to emulate them. They are role models for the rest of us. I truly believe that the only way to be a great teacher is to have real enthusiasm for your subject.
I notice that this teacher used a range of delivery methods too, which maintains momentum and engagement.
And how important is it to smile!!
My story is not about me but rather 2 teachers that have entered my daughters life over the last few years. My daughter is a gifted artist and very good at thinking outside the box, but she also has some learning and behaviour difficulties which has meant she has struggled to fit the “norm” at school. She is getting them under control now but her very early years at school were full of difficult times. I remember finding out that 2 of her teachers who shared the class had advised her next year teacher that she was “a monster”. Luckily for her, that teacher was so kind. Mr N took me aside after she had been in his class a few weeks and told me his daughter was similar to her. He then proceeded to find ways she could contribute and participate using her talents which helped with her behaviour and I think this is when she really started to enjoy learning. Despite my best efforts, she still struggles with her confidence and she was able to build her confidence with the assistance of a more recent teacher. Mrs G would again find ways to emphasise what my daughter could do so well and helped her spread her confidence to other subjects by her unyielding belief in my daughter and what she could achieve if she wanted too.
I loved your story Anna. It goes to show that empathy is absolutely essential in a teacher. Everybody has their strengths and weaknesses and the good teacher will build upon the learner’s strengths, giving them opportunities to achieve something that develops self-esteem and confidence to take risks and accept challenges.
I’ve often thought that good teachers are born – not made. They need certain characteristics (such as empathy) which you can’t train somebody into having. They need to care.
My story is about when I first started studying at university. I did a low level math at school and as a result after completing a trade and wanting to study engineering, I had to do bridging math with complicated equations to improve my standard. By chance a friend who grew up in the same small town in North Queensland was enrolled in the same engineering course. We were not good friends at school and had very little interest in common. He was very good at math and offered to tutor me while we studied together and worked on assignments. Not being academically inclined his assistance was invaluable and gave me the confidence to achieve good results which allowed me further opportunities in life and assisted me in achieving high level results.
I have always been grateful and would probably not gone on to further studies and had the confidence in my own ability to pursue the career I have now. We still keep in touch even though we have not seen each other for 30 years.
Patrick – your story shows a number of things – other than how grateful you are to your friend. One of the things we know as trainers is how much our trainees learn from one another. When we start thinking we are the only fount of knowledge, that’s when we fall by the wayside as trainers, especially when we have adult learners who have a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives and a range of strengths. I do think that you will find it an advantage as a trainer that you are “not academically inclined”. The secret in VET is keeping it real.
Rather than commenting on teachers, I will comment on a number of incidents which have influenced my thoughts about teaching.
When I was in 4th class (aged 9), I was in the B class with Mrs P as my teacher. Mr C, the teacher for the A class was a big man and was very gruff – pupils were scared of him. One day both classes were combined for our craft lesson. We had a colouring-in task using a printed drawing with black lines. The 3 best pieces were selected to display to the whole group and for a merit award. I was standing in front of the group holding up my work as one of those 3 pieces and then Mr C said that I could not be considered because I had not coloured the lines and that I could not get my award. I remember thinking – how can I colour the printed black lines? I felt cheated and humiliated. Mrs P came to my defence and debated with Mr C in front of the group why my piece should get an award, which I was finally given. Mrs P had shown empathy to me as a pupil and had the courage to stand up for me in public. There were other incident during the year where she similarly stood up for pupils she felt were not being treated fairly.
I studied level 1 maths for the HSC; there were about 16 of us in the class. Every Thursday in the last 8 weeks leading up to the HSC we sat a past paper test for 3 hours. The following morning at 8.30 Mr K would go through the results with us. Overnight he had marked all the test papers and created a learning exercise to pick up on any trends in our errors. That was a huge task which he did in his own time, as he had other teaching obligations as well as us. He was committed to doing what he could to get all of us (the brilliant and the not so brilliant) through the HSC, and we all did.
Another experience was with my high school French teacher. Mr M used the cane and the threat of the cane as motivation to learn. His methods worked on many of us because we were doing HSC papers in year 10 and ultimately finished the HSC being able to speak and read French well. Whilst his methods would not be permitted today, the “fear” factor is a powerful teaching motivator for some and a de-motivator for others.
Malcolm – you have made some interesting and thought provoking comments. Some of the key things that make for great training/teaching are:
*being given opportunities for practice, because we learn by doing, not by being told
*the attitude of the teacher and whether they truly care about the people they teach and have a passion for their subject
*fairness in the way we treat all our students so that they don’t feel cheated and humiliated
I’ve always thought that good teachers are born – not made. If you don’t have the right mind-set and don’t care, you will never be a great teacher.
I can remember particularly a couple of maths teachers who constantly asked questions of the students to keep track that they were picking up the lesson – and if a student gave a wrong answer the teacher would make sure they were asked another (easier!) question later in the class so that they could maintain confidence – I thought that was great.
Another high school teacher stood out for me because he had worked ‘in the real world’ – which was quite rare. I valued his insights because of that, and his experience added variety to his lessons.
I think it is so important to build the confidence of your students. This resonates with me on a deep personal level. I do remember having a Math Teacher in high school whom actually dropped his face into his hands and shook his head when I asked a question one day. A question that yes may have been obvious or simple but the answer meant me getting the method right or not. This has stuck with me ever since, I cannot believe a teacher like that exists. Supporting your students and creating a safe learning environment is fundamental to student growth.
Thanks for sharing Laura. Supporting students and creating a safe learning environment is fundamental to student growth. Asking questions is learning and growth.
Learning is a life long experience, and so the “teachers” with whom I have crossed paths over the years have been many and varied. Some remembered, unfortunately many more forgotten, but all have influenced my life and dealings with other people in one way or another.
The memorable ones always had a passion for what they taught, were always prepared and able to answer your questions and encouraged you to go just that little bit further than you had previously. The maths teacher who used “real life” examples of formula to make them interesting, the English teacher that would encourage me to think about what I was writing and add depth to the pieces.
Having said that, thinking back now, there were some not so great teachers that have also influenced me by giving me examples of how things shouldn’t be done. The teacher that would come in and instruct on how to do something just to return to class the next day and say that yesterday’s class was all wrong, the teacher who would sit at the front of the class and read from the text book.
As a teacher / instructor, I know which category I hope to fall into for being memorable.
Thank you Gavin for sharing your experiences. You are so right – the teachers with a passion for what they teach are able to motivate their learners and create a desire for “learning more”. As you say, the teachers we had who were “not so great” have hopefully showed us how “not to be”. I love this quote: “A great teacher takes a hand, opens a mind and touches a heart”.
Gavin, you are so right. I notice that your Maths and English teachers both applied what we think of as the adult learning principles, although in my opinion they apply just as much to children.
We need to know why we are learning. We need to see how that learning applies to us. We need to learn from experience and activities. Great teachers understand the difference between providing information and facilitating the achievement of knowledge.
“Teachers who influenced my life ” Well, let me cast back through the ages to when I was just a little boy of about seven or eight years old. If I recall correctly the year was approximately 1965 or ’66, I was in either 3rd or 4th class, I was very small in stature, had bright red hair, was covered in freckles and as skinny as a robbers dog. My teacher’s name was Mister Saul. He was an imposing figure of about six foot three inches (I am afraid the metric system had yet to be introduced to this country at that time) and also presented a less than welcoming demeanor. He used to take great delight in dragging students up to the front of the class for presentations and I recall vividly my embarrassment at having to comply with this, especially his mirth at any show of hesitancy or nervousness, which I so easily portrayed. This memory has scarred me for life, but it has at least instilled in me a sense of sympathy. He was not the only teacher to impact my life but was certainly the most memorable.
Thank you for sharing this Harry. I too had a teacher who was rather intimidating; both size wise and also his personality, when I was 9 years old. We take the good and learn from what was not so pleasant I suppose to ensure we do not let others feel the way we did. We instead show kindness, compassion, care and love.
Rest assured at ITTA that we will look after you and also make you feel safe.
It is refreshing to have someone like Harry post a description of a negative experience that has ultimately had a positive outcome. Because I too, cannot remember ever being inspired by any teacher and yet I have ended up one! Like Harry the strongest memories are of the bad experiences.
Probably the standout and the one that did the most damage ( at the time) was in Grade seven when I had Mr Walters as a class teacher. I can still remember how he used to rant and rave at the noisy trains that went past and drowned out his teaching ( it used to fascinate me how he went redder and redder as he got more angry and I now have the knowledge to understand why!). What he did however was something that was to change the direction of my studies and determine my choice of education and profession. For as a primary school child I was an avid reader (of everything and anything, quite frequently under the desk at school) which in turn had completely turned on my imagination and ( I think) developed my writing skills . So during my time in his class I wrote this fantastic, imaginative essay only to be hauled up in front of the class and be accused of plagiarism! It turned me completely away from arts subjects into the world of mathematics and science, a course that has been very satisfying but somewhat limited in the ways that the imagination can be used.
I could relate at least five similar ‘negative’ experiences, that collectively have on reflection, steered my choices in what I did, and made me determined that if I ever became a teacher that I would never repeat the same behaviours !
Thanks for your comments Sharon, as you have said, negative experiences can also be a great teacher. My philosophy is that if you can create a learning environment that is relaxed and comfortable the student will feel safe to learn.
One of the teachers that influenced my life forever was Miss Elizabeth Jones who was my music teacher from year seven to year ten at high school. She was completely dedicated to her students. The music room was always open for the girls who belonged to the choir, did elective music or who just wanted to be where there was music. We had choir practice every morning and every lunchtime and as a result of her inspired and tireless teaching, our small choir sang in some wonderful places in Sydney. She was always looking for opportunities for us to experience music in broader and deeper ways. We sang choral music from many different eras, including a challenging twentieth century work by Australian composer Eric Gross. He conducted the premier of one of his works which he had composed specifically for our choir and the St Andrews Cathedral choir. What an experience it was to be part of that concert! Miss Jones would pick us up and drive us home from rehearsals if transport was a problem, she did whatever was needed so we didn’t miss out on experiences that would benefit us, not just musically, but to help us gain confidence and blossom.
It’s very nice to read about your beginnings with music and choir. I remember a certain teacher at my high school (who was also my choir mistress) who was one of the only teachers that I have ever known who could actually break their instructions down into technical steps to explain HOW to do something, not just WHAT to do. And I’ve had Enya’s “Orinocho Flow” stuck in my head ever since! 😉
My Year 11 and 12 Ancient History teacher was Mrs Cameron. Her passion and knowledge of the past inspired me to want to learn more and more. We took a field trip to the library at the University of Sydney in Year 12 which opened up my world to the volume of books out there on my favourite subject! I visited the library a number of times after that on the weekend to read and study more and add to my knowledge base. I did not do that with any other subject.
I still love history to this day and I am very thankful to Mrs Cameron for gifting me with her love of learning about the past.
Kirrilee, I wish more people had a “Mrs Cameron” to inspire and create a desire to learn more. As you say, a teacher like Mrs Cameron can open up a whole new world for a young mind. These are the teachers we never forget and feel forever grateful to. Thank you for sharing such a lovely story.
My experience of teachers & learning has been the polar opposite. I didn’t have a teacher that took me under their wing. I was not nurtured or guided in a caring or respectful way. And that’s OK. I have taught myself once I reached adulthood. Through my early education experience I have learnt that if all you have is a hammer, then all you see is a nail. I never fit what a student should be & this has taught me that flexibility, adaptability & respect can sometimes be more important as it allows the ‘different’ student to learn the best way they can.
Toni, thank you for sharing your experience. As teachers/trainers and assessors it is so important to remember that we are in a position of trust and one of influence. As you say, every student is different and therefore flexibility is a must as students will have different learning styles. How wonderful if, as trainers and assessors, we can remember that each student is unique and every student is capable of giving their best if they are encouraged.
I’m afraid that I am in your boat Toni. I went to a very rough all boys High School in Western Sydney that most of the teachers probably wish they hadn’t been allocated to. If you were the least bit academically gifted you would cop a hard time from the other kids. I mean a really hard time. Most of the teachers recognised this and so tried to keep personal contact to a bare minimum. My favourite “teacher” there was our Rugby Coach who came to coach us from the local first grade Rugby Club. This man had no formal qualifications but was a great man manager. He instantly recognised everyone’s strengths and instantly recognised everyone’s weaknesses. He first worked with our strengths and made us all feel confident and like we mattered. Then once we were up and running and feeling good about ourselves he individually worked on each person’s weaknesses. We made two Grand Finals in two years under Kenny after being bottom of the league the year before. He helped turn me from a unconfident little boy into a man because he treated us as equals.
I fondly remember my year 5 teacher Mr Kernett. He was the first male teacher I had and he was so engaging and the way he spoke to us was encouraging. I specifically remember him reading to us every afternoon before home time. He read with such expression that we hung on every word so much so that i still remember him reading The BFG and to this day I love books and reading. He was a great story teller and always told us stories from his childhood which made him approachable.
Vanessa, how wonderful that a teacher like Mr Kernett was there to engage you in learning and reading. I love to read stories like yours where the influence of a great teacher has made all the difference. I was not familiar with The BFG so I actually looked it up – I can now imagine the intrigue and anticipation that you would have felt as someone like Mr Kernett took the time to read to the class every afternoon before home time. You mention that he was a great story teller and that it made him approachable. I believe story telling is an important part of learning for children and for adults. Adults learn from sharing experiences and telling stories so as trainers and assessors it is certainly good to remember that through the sharing of relevant stories our students can not only learn from us as trainers and assessors, but also learn from each. We can also learn from our students.
I remember my Hindi subject teacher a lot in my school. We fondly called him Sharma Sir. He was a jolly fellow, full of life , always cracking jokes and making all students feel good. This someone is someone who makes you believe in yourself when you have lost a little bit of confidence in yourself.
Confidence is so important for learning. No-one can learn when they are afraid. Thank you for telling us about Sharma Sir!
Avanti, you are so right. If we have a teacher like Sharma Sir, it makes such a difference. A bad learning experience can result in us putting up a block to further learning. How lovely when a teacher can make a difference and open up a whole new world. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Some of my most memorable teachers were in my final years of high school in international schools in India. The best of them imparted not only academic knowledge, but their life experience and skills- how to BE as a human being.
They were a diverse bunch, but looking back it seems to me that they all had things in common :
enough self -belief to be vulnerable, belief and trust in their students and commitment to the value of education, love of ideas and learning, respect for yourself and other people.
Our English and drama teacher came from an acting background in New York City and pushed us to express ourselves beyond cliché and standard phrases. He was openly gay at a time when this was not accepted socially – he showed us by example to not fear difference, but to embrace it.
Another English teacher whose great love of the work of James Joyce had even the most rambunctious boy in the class listening enthralled to the story of Stephen Dedalus.
Our Hindi teacher who took our class by train and bullock cart to his village on the Punjab/Haryana border so we could experience India outside of the city – we arrived in his village past midnight and sat around an open fire under the starry sky drinking chai that had been brewed on a pot on the fire, listening to the sounds of a rural existence and feeling our horizons expanding wider than they ever had.
Our French teacher – an avant-garde poet and musician who taught us to love the lilt and resonance of the language through music and songs, not just grammar.
Our history teacher who made sure that we knew the ebb and flow of history in the form of dates names,and events, but also made sure we understood history in a visceral way – in the faces and lives of the people and the old buildings around us and that we felt first -hand the connectedness of those historical events to current day happenings.
All of these teachers did a lot more than was required of them on the curriculum and went out of their way to “stretch” us intellectually, emotionally, and acted as life guides for us kids growing up into adults.
In a learning sense they were all strict and demanding – and I am grateful for the lessons I learned from them – academic rigour, good work habits and time management.
But the thing that I remember the most is not the names and dates and formulas, but the fact that they were all individuals first and foremost and not afraid to show it, and the respect and kindness they showed us students as we took our first steps as young adults.
I really enjoyed reading about your special teachers Hiromi, I almost feel like l know them because of the beautiful way you have written about how much they added to your learning and the experiences they provided which taught you how to be a human being and how to think. Thank you
Beautifully written Hiromi. I thoroughly enjoyed reading your the teachers who made a difference in your life. I believe that if we have a positive learning experience when we are young then it opens the window to our hearts and minds for further learning.
I enjoyed reading about the difference that teachers can make in our lives. My life has been enriched by numerous teachers. Three that made a huge difference to me were: Ms Val Pinder, Mr Robert Sjolund and Mrs Jan Buerkner.
Val Pinder was an inspiring woman who taught me Italian in Year 7. She had a rare disability that caused her muscles to become bones and she was wheelchair bound but she didn’t let this stop her! She was patient, knowledgable and she had a sense of humour. She taught me that anything is possible.
Robert Sjolund was another teacher who changed my life. He was my English teacher in Year 10. He encouraged me to love reading and developed my self confidence through debating.
In addition, Jan Buerkner made a huge difference in my life. She was my Year 11 and 12 English and Literature teacher and she introduced me to the world of poetry.
I will never forget these three teachers and I am grateful for their contribution to my life.