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.
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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.… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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,… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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.… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
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… Read more »
Thanks for sharing your experiences Emily, I really enjoyed reading your post and sharing in your learning.