1. Get to know your students
Take the time to understand your students and get to know their backgrounds, interests, and learning styles. Building positive relationships with your students is crucial if you want to become an effective teacher. Of course, this is something that takes time, but the first step should be taken on your very first day. Ask questions and be open to discussions, you’ll be surprised by what you learn.
2. Be organised
You’re going to need to be extremely organised if you want to manage a classroom and do it well. Developing strong organisational skills should be a priority, especially when it comes to lesson plans, marking work, and creating material for the classroom. Being well-prepared will help you feel more confident and in control from the very beginning.
3. Create a positive learning environment
Create a positive and inclusive environment in your classroom, ensuring all your students feel comfortable, welcome, and free to learn. Start off by establishing clear expectations in terms of behaviour, but make sure it’s still a safe space where they can express themselves. Everyone should feel good about walking into that classroom – including you.
4. Never stop learning
Even though you’ve completed your formal education, you shouldn’t stop learning. In fact, you should be more committed than ever to your professional development. Attend as many workshops and conferences as you can, and try to find a more experienced educator who’d be willing to mentor you. This way, you’re continuously growing and refining your teaching methods.
5. Focus on communication
Developing strong communication skills should be a top priority early on in your teaching career. After all, you’ll need to be in constant communication with your learners and – occasionally – their parents as well. Aside from everyday lessons, you’ll have to keep parents informed about classroom activities, student progress, and any concerns you may have. Clear communication helps build trust and support as an educator.
6. Collaborate with colleagues
Build relationships with other teachers and staff members from the moment you start working at a school. They’ll become your allies, mentors, and peers. You’ll be able to collaborate on lesson planning, share resources, and exchange ideas.
7. Encourage student engagement through interactive activities
As a new teacher, strive to incorporate interactive activities into your lessons. Whether it’s group discussions, hands-on projects, or educational games, interactive learning not only makes lessons more enjoyable for students but also enhances their understanding and retention of the material. By creating a dynamic and engaging classroom environment, you’ll foster a love for learning among your students and make the teaching experience more rewarding for yourself.
8. Embrace technology
You’re a new teacher entering the education system at a time when technology is playing a new role, use this to your advantage. Incorporate technology into your teaching methods by exploring educational apps, online resources, and other tools that can be used to enhance student engagement and learning. For more inspiration, read our blog post on education and tech here.
9. Put yourself first
Self-care is crucial if you want to be a good teacher. Teaching can be emotionally and physically draining. Taking care of yourself by maintaining a healthy work-life balance should be something you learn early on in your career. Prioritise self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation, and hobbies, to help prevent burnout down the line.
10. Reach out to Now Education
If you’re looking for your first teaching role, we’re here to help you find your ideal school. We’ve been in education recruitment for years and understand how to match the right educator with the right institution. Get in touch to discuss your options!
