Andrea's Blog

Role of the Teacher

Within a school community, children exhibit a range of customs, language, behaviour and ideas as ways of expressing themselves. As techers it is important that we embrace these differences and provide equal oportunities free from discrimination to all students. It is often the case however, that some students are left out or not included at the detriment of their individual learning and this is evident in the attitudes of teachers, the wider school community even the materials we use in order to teach such as textbooks.

In establishing inclusive school environments we need a holistic approach that involves the communication between parents, teachers and the wider community in understanding each students needs. The commitment to creating a just and inclusive school is necessary in promoting student achievment academically, socially and emmotionally and ensures that each child is actively engaged within the school environment.

The Role of the Family

Families have a major role to play in the education of their children and a collaborative relationship between parents and teachers is necessary in improving student learning overall. There are numerous ways in which parents can get involved within the school such as

• Sports Days



• Parent-teacher nights



• Working Bees



• School Council Meetings



• Voluntary Initiatives

Opportunities for parents to participate in the decision making processes in areas such as school policies, professional development and curriculum should also be made a priority. Some would argue that this participation may create more problems than opportunities

• Our time and resources would go toward encouraging parent participation rather than educating students



• Even if we provided this opportunity, the parents involved would represent a white, middle class demographic and leave those unable to speak english or unsure of how to contribute out of the loop.

I would argue that in fostering this relationship with parents and the wider commuity we would generate a greater interest in the school and create a more supportive environment with greater opporutnites for children to learn. Furthermore, there are a myriad of ways in which parents can contribute to the school especially in celebrating diverse cultures and traditions or special skills and talents. Overall, an encouraging, supportive home environment is imperative if a child is to progress in their individual learning thus parents need to be aware of what is happening at the school and how their children are working within that environment.

What Are the Rights of Every Child In the School?

Every child has the right to an education within a safe and supportive environment. "The purpouse of education is to develop every child's personality, talents and mental and phsycial abilities" (Article 29 UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.) It is my job as a teacher to facilitate an environment where every child feels valued and respected in order to promote their active participation within the classroom and school environment overall. In this way I will be creating an inclusive environment and protecting these individual rights.

"All organizations concerned with children, for example schools and the health service, should work toward what is best for each child"