Do we have a heart for education?

In the realm of education, particularly when speaking with and interviewing educators, one question I frequently ask is: Do we have a heart for education? A heart, passion, and desire to see young people thrive is what drives us to work in education. Whether as teachers, senior leaders, or support staff, our work with young people must transcend the boundaries of a conventional job and transform into a vocation—a calling to nurture, inspire, and empower the next generation. This is especially crucial for learners with additional needs who face significant barriers to their education.

Educators play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of these young individuals. The foundation of this role surenly must be a love and genuine care for the students they serve. It’s about seeing beyond the academic curriculum and understanding the unique potential within each child. It’s about creating an inclusive environment where every student, regardless of their challenges, feels valued, supported, and capable of achieving their fullest potential.

Teaching in the 21st century is not just about imparting knowledge. It’s about being a mentor, a guide, and sometimes a lifeline for young people navigating an increasingly complex world. For students with additional needs, educators must be particularly attuned to their unique challenges and strengths. This requires a dedication that goes far beyond the confines of a job description. It’s a commitment to seeing each student as an individual with unique gifts and potential and being curious about why they can sometimes display certain behaviours.

When educators view their role as a vocation, they are driven by a desire to see their students succeed—not just academically, but as whole individuals. They are motivated by a vision of their students growing into confident, capable adults who can lead fulfilling lives. This vision requires educators to be patient, creative, curious and unwavering in their belief in each student’s potential.

Every child is unique and this is a strength that should be celebrated. As a parent, the desire for the best for our children is universal. It reflects the hope that every child will be recognised for their individuality and allowed to thrive in their way. In the classroom, this means acknowledging and valuing the differences among students. It means creating learning experiences tailored to diverse needs and ensuring that every child has the support they need to succeed.

An inclusive approach to education recognises that the world would indeed be a very boring place if everyone were the same. The variety of perspectives, talents, and abilities enriches our communities and drives innovation. Educators who embrace this diversity foster an environment where every student feels seen and appreciated for who they are.

In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, the role of educators is more crucial than ever. The challenges students face, such as social media pressures, mental health issues, and short-term trauma are complex, making traditional teaching methods insufficient. Educators have to be adaptable, lifelong learners who seek new ways to engage and support their students.

This shift from viewing teaching as a job to embracing it as a vocation involves a profound change in mindset. It requires educators to be passionate advocates for their students, to fight for the resources and support they need, and to continually strive for excellence in their practice. It means being resilient in the face of challenges and never giving up in the pursuit of student success.

At the heart of education, there has to be a love for young people and a deep-seated desire to see them grow and succeed. For educators, this means embracing their role as more than just a job, it’s a vocation, a calling to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students. By fostering an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic learning environment, educators can help every student, especially those with additional needs, overcome barriers and reach their full potential. This then will not only enrich the lives of students but also contribute to a more diverse, innovative, and compassionate world.

Claire B