TEACHERS' CHAMP (from the ST, 26 August)
"Teaching is the profession on which all other professions depend. Indeed, everybody who is anybody was enabled to become somebody by a teacher." --- Professor Linda Darling-Hammond
I never thought teaching needs to be advocated until I read this article in the papers where Professor Linda argued for more recognition for teachers, whose impact on the young people is far and wide. Personally, I thought teaching in Singapore is rather recognized as compared to other professions say social work, which is still equated with volunteer work by many!
Beyond the advocacy for higher pay & recognition, she wants to highlight the significance of a teacher's role, which unfortunately has been undermined over the years. Teaching is often associated with aspects like job security, recession-hardy, good benefits, long holidays etc etc but what goes on behind the scene, no one is aware except for the teachers themselves.
Teaching is more than just a job! If we can't appreciate that, then teaching can't be as effective as it should be.
STUDENTS' CHAMP
Made a visit to Northlight yesterday with some of my classmates. It was the first time for all of us and I was glad all left feeling encouraged and inspired. Had the Principal and HOD of PE/CCA talked to us and showed us around the school.
The room where students & teachers can play together. PSP, game consoles etc all well kept and intact. It spoke volume of the trust that the school has in the students.
Then we were treated to a surprise! The school gave us a breakfast treat, all prepared & served by the students themselves. It was such a delight to see the synergy between the teachers i/c and students as they went about their duties. If there was anything that can be improved on, the teacher would patiently point it out and guide the students along.
Though the orders took a while to come, I saw the pride and professionalism displayed in the students. It was service with a smile all the way. I was deeply encouraged.
Students doing their in-house attachment in the cafe within the school.
This boy was teh-tariking for us and he did it so diligently. If only you could see the serious look on his face!
Northlight is not just a school. Maybe for some, its their 2nd home; a place where they find their sense of security, belonging and love. Accounts by the Principal and Mr Nasir (HOD of PE) have highlighted the success stories of some of the kids and they have been incredible.
I was truly inspired by what I saw and heard. Its a school where teaching is from the heart. I didn't get to talk to students personally but from my observations, I sensed a deep gratitude in them for all that Northlight has been and done. It has given them another chance in life to experience and taste success, which evaded them the moment they got their PSLE certificates. They have now become champions in their own special ways.
Personally, I would want to experience teaching in Northlight (that's a few years down the road!) but it has reminded me that regardless of where I'll be teaching, I can do the same i.e.
TEACH FROM & WITH MY HEART.
Make champions of the kids by BELIEVING & HOPING IN THEM.
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