‘Insights from Teaching’

From a wannabe teacher

Before becoming a teacher, I worked in marketing, a world of strategy, creativity, and persuasion. But during lockdowns I wanted to do something more meaningful, something that made a real impact. That’s how I found myself on the Teach For Australia pathway, an intense program designed to bring high-achieving professionals into disadvantaged schools to help create more equitable education opportunities.

It was a demanding and humbling experience—working full-time as a teacher while studying for a Master of Teaching. I had no prior degree in education, and the imposter syndrome was real. I remember crying so much after my first week as a teacher, thinking that I had made the biggest mistake of my life.

Most days, I felt completely out of my depth, standing in front of a classroom of students who deserved the best education possible. But over time, I learned that teaching is not about being perfect—it’s about being present, adaptable, and always willing to learn.

I’ve only been teaching for a few years, so really, these posts are just my personal notes and reflections. I don’t have all the answers, and I love hearing from and learning from others. If you have insights, experiences, or different perspectives, I’d love for you to share them so we can grow together as educators.

This series, ‘Insights from Teaching: Strategies, Wellbeing, and Inclusive Education’, is based on real-world experiences, evidence-based approaches, and reflective practice. Each post will focus on key aspects of effective teaching, from classroom management and student engagement to trauma-informed practices and self-care.

What to Expect in This Series

Each post will be structured to provide practical, easy-to-apply strategies along with real-world examples to make learning more engaging for both you and your students. Here’s a preview of what’s coming up:

Core Teaching Strategies & Classroom Management

Building a Positive Classroom Environment – How to establish clear rules, engage students from the start, and foster a sense of belonging.
Checking for Understanding: How to Ensure Students Are Learning – Effective formative assessment strategies to track student progress.
Managing Behaviour and Creating a Safe Learning Space – How to handle classroom disruptions, build trust, and use restorative practices.

Student Wellbeing & Self-Regulation

Helping Students Self-Regulate & Stay Ready to Learn – Using mindfulness, routines, and co-regulation strategies to support students.
Understanding Trauma-Informed Teaching – Recognising trauma’s impact on learning and applying inclusive, supportive strategies.
The Power of Strength-Based Teaching – How to identify student strengths, use process praise, and foster resilience through gratitude and hope.

Diversity & Inclusion in Education

Creating Inclusive Classrooms: Safe Schools and LGBTIQ+ Support – Addressing discrimination, promoting respect, and making every student feel valued.
Supporting EAL (English as an Additional Language) Students – Practical approaches to help EAL students thrive in mainstream classrooms.

Teacher Wellbeing & Growth

Self-Care for Teachers: Avoiding Burnout and Staying Motivated – Prioritising your mental health while balancing high expectations.
Reflecting on Your Teaching Practice: Growth and Critical Thinking – Using feedback and critical reflection to refine your teaching approach.

Why This Matters

Teaching is both an art and a science—it requires skill, patience, and adaptability. By understanding student behaviour, applying effective strategies, and fostering inclusive learning spaces, you can create a positive and engaging classroom environment that benefits both you and your students.

Whether you’re a seasoned educator or just starting your journey, this series will provide you with valuable tools, strategies, and insights to support your professional growth.

Stay Tuned!

In the next post, we’ll explore how to build a positive classroom environment, setting the foundation for a thriving learning space.

Subscribe to stay updated, and feel free to share your own experiences and insights in the comments!