Welcome back to the real world, teachers! 

It’s been months of living in the “virtual world” where many of you had to figure out, for the first time, the art of online teaching. For some, it felt like recess, for others, it was more like detention.

But now that you’re headed back to the classroom with masks and markers in tow, why not kick off the start of term with a pat on the back from your boss? Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or new to the classroom, your Head of School will continue to evaluate your performance, meaning you’ll need to bring your A-Game forward every day; after all, any praise from the top can only work in your favour.

Here are some ideas that’ll impress even the toughest of headmasters/mistresses while also setting a good example for your students.  ​

• Be Corona-conscious 

Returning to school post the Coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown means that what used to be normal, now has a “new normal” alternative. Show your headmaster or headmistress that you’re aware of the proportionate protective measures you’re now required to put in place for the sake of keeping you, your colleagues and your students safe. 

• Do something different

Teachers lead by example and who better inspire you to get creative in the classroom than a fellow teacher? Get creative with the way you teach your classes, the decor on your classroom’s walls, the way you greet your students each morning, or the way you motivate them before an exam or activity. We love a certain Mr. Johnson who made his students peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before an exam. Awesome! 

• Tell the truth

Criticism of your work environment is not a bad thing… as long as it’s positive. Taking the initiative to come up with solutions to problems your school, students or colleagues may be facing will surely impress your boss. It shows that you genuinely care about the place you spend more time at than your own home and that you’re willing to go the extra mile to make a difference for everyone’s benefit.

• Those who can, teach

The next time you’re hanging out in the staff room, why not ask each teacher to write down what made them really fall in love with teaching. Gather their answers and display them in creative ways around the school’s hallways. When students see the handwritten statements of genuinity and passion for the job, they’ll have a renewed respect for their teachers and may even be inspired to follow in their footsteps.