How much do you care?

An educational establishment whether a school, college or university does not lack information but, may lack true care (consideration).”I don’t care how much you know until, I know how much you care”, this simply saying was an epiphany for me in my practice and could be one of your biggest levelers for good or bad.

If it is perceived that you care, it can have a great positive bearing on your results and if it is the opposite, this could have a great negative impact on your chances of greater attainment.

Students are people first and learners second, you see how I just got it wrong, did you notice? It should have read people are students not the other way round and this is an area schools fail in. Firstly, we are always teaching, engaging or reaching people not numbers, potential grades or anything else. We are in the people business and this should always be primary. This approach will always influence more intuitive and empathetic practice that will yield greater results.

As people connect with people. Secondly, humanity should always be in the equation as that gives us context and gives us space to be imperfect. Why did Jonny storm out? Why is Sarah moody today? Why did Richards slam the desk? Maybe because they are human and have other things happening in their life that have nothing to do with school, could this be the reason?

From my research and findings young people engage in lessons more frequently and consistently with teachers they like. This is important as learning is not passive so offensive approaches or condescending tones can shut down your lessons learning objectives before the white board has be turned on or before anyone has taken off their coats.”

I don’t care how much you know until I know how much you care” might sound touchy feely to you and you may retort with an “I am only here to teach” maybe you are but, who is learning if your class is switched off because of your lack of consideration. The best teachers care. If you don’t believe me ask your students… This is my mantra children are people first and students second.