It has finally happened. I have finished my advanced teaching placement. I am two months away from finishing my two-year masters in post-primary education. I cannot believe I am almost there. To say it has been an interesting ride is an understatement. COVID has impacted on all my placements; the first one was over before it began as COVID arrived in Irish shores; the second allowed me to be in the classroom but with the added strain of teaching through a mask and at a two-metre distance; the third and final one again impeded in its start date and limited to 3 weeks of online and 4 weeks of classroom engagement.
It has been an interesting ride. One that has taught me so much and given me insights into my abilities as a teacher. I have mentioned before that this is my second career. I decided to pursue a career in post-primary education after many wonderful years in research and the enterprise community. I have asked myself many times on this journey if this was the right decision to make. Here is “What I know for Sure”.
I read the book by Oprah entitled “What I Know for Sure”. She explained that after many years as a successful interviewer, influencer and writer someone asked her so…..what do you know for sure? It took her by surprise but it forced her to consider her life what she considered her successes and lessons. I asked myself this question right as I was about to finish my final placement. I know for sure….that I made the right decision.
I have enjoyed my new career path and the paths that it has led me down. I am committed to engaging young minds in learning and ensuring inclusion for all in the classroom. I have made research “friends” in Kate Jones who has introduced me to the wonders of Retrieval Practice and its ability to show students their ability and not their failings. It has introduced me to the fantastic teaching and learning strategies of Lisa Young and Caroline McHale and their bible of business teaching “Enterprise“. I have been allowed into this special world and it is a privilege. The student is at the centre of our teaching and it excites me.
What do I know for sure?…..that I can adapt to any situation. COVID has given me that skill. I can make a difference in the classroom….my new colleagues have shown me that. But most of all I know FOR SURE that I made the right decision and I do not regret one part of it.
