05. 03. 2024

Prepare the Child for the Road, Not the Road for the Child

In the realm of education, the maxim "Prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child" serves as a guiding principle not only for students but also for those who aspire to become educators. Grad2Teach Salaried Teacher Training embodies this philosophy, recognising that resilience and adaptability are essential qualities for both students and teachers alike.

At the heart of Grad2Teach's approach lies the understanding that true growth occurs through facing challenges head-on. Partner schools are encouraged not to make it too easy for trainees, as the journey to becoming a proficient educator demands perseverance, determination, and the ability to overcome obstacles. This deliberate challenge is one of the reasons why Grad2Teach requires its trainees to have at least two years of independent teaching experience before gaining Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

This extended period of teaching experience serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it provides trainees with the opportunity to apply the skills and knowledge they've acquired during their training in real-world classroom settings. By confronting the complexities of teaching independently, trainees learn to navigate diverse learning environments, adapt their instructional approaches, and develop a deeper understanding of their own teaching style.

Post-QTS, this experience is instrumental in minimising the imposter syndrome that many Early Career Teachers (ECTs) may experience when they first enter the profession. By gradually assuming greater responsibility for their classrooms, our trainees gain confidence in their abilities, realising that they are capable of making a meaningful impact on their students' lives.

However, the significance of this approach extends beyond individual teacher development. Grad2Teach firmly believes that resilient teachers are more likely to remain in the field of education for years to come, contributing to the stability and continuity of the profession. By nurturing resilience in its trainees, Grad2Teach strives to create a cohort of educators who are committed to their craft, passionate about their students' success, and resilient in the face of adversity.

In essence, Grad2Teach Salaried Teacher Training embraces the maxim "Prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child" not only in its approach to student learning but also in its commitment to developing resilient and adaptable educators. By challenging trainees to confront the realities of teaching independently, Grad2Teach equips them with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of education. Through this holistic approach, Grad2Teach aspires to cultivate a generation of teachers who are not only prepared to meet the needs of their students but also resilient enough to weather the challenges that lie ahead, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.