As I type this the words of Rita Pearson are ringing in my ears…”“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be“. Only when I started teaching did these words really resonate with me. I have worked hard to be the teacher I wanted in school. Someone who loved their subject, who listened and looked like they wanted to be there! The last two years I have stripped to do just that. To be that persons to my students but also to my peers.
All the hard work has finally paid off! In May of this year I got the word that I was being given CID in my school. The relief was immense but the sense of pride was significantly more. I had and still continue to work hard. I have committed myself to my school, I have developed relationships both professionally and personally. I have become part of the SEN team in the school which has given me joy, heartache and the most pride you could ever imagine. I have written grant applications, school proposals and schemes of work. I have gone into work everyday with a sense of pride and happiness that what I am doing is making a difference.
This year I am also realising a passion by becoming a Masters Thesis Supervisor for Hibernia College. My alma mater as they say. They have given me so much and continue to do so. I now get the chance to use my skills and give back to them and the students they take on board.
If you had said to me two years ago that I would have all this (and more to come) I would have probably laughed. Hard work does pay off; with the support from work and home having a significant impact.
So to anyone thinking of embarking on this journey or the Hibernia journey as I call it…. do it. Best decision I ever made!
