The Power of Connection: Cultivating Supportive Networks in Education
To all our fellow educators, let’s delve into a topic that’s near and dear to our hearts: the power of connection in the wonderful world of education.?
Here at Teach Now, we're all about embracing the chaos of teaching life with a sprinkle of humour, mutual support, and togetherness, because let's face it, if we didn't laugh together, we'd probably cry – and nobody’s got time for that when there are lessons to plan and science experiments gone slightly wrong.??
Teaching is stressful, which makes supportive networks in the education industry crucial to your well-being. Besides being a lifesaver on those particularly frazzled days (we've all been there, trust us), they're also a breeding ground for innovation, collaboration, and good old-fashioned morale boosting.?
Challenges For Teachers?
Both teachers and TA’s face many daily challenges, from classroom management to keeping up to date with class planning and admin needs. This is also heightened when teachers are catering to students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). According to recent data from the Department for Education, approximately 17% of students in England have SEN, adding layers of complexity to classroom dynamics.?
Another large contributor to educator's stress is workload pressure. According to a survey by the Education Support Partnership, nearly 70% of teachers in the UK reported that workload was the main cause of their stress. In some cases, the workload pressure is intensified by long working hours, admin demands, and the need to keep up with curriculum and assessment requirements. Although some levels of stress can be beneficial when they are managed effectively, it’s important to take the necessary steps to prioritise your well-being, ensuring longevity in your teaching career. We want to ensure you have a fulfilling profession, without experiencing excessive stress and burnout.??
The Importance of Teacher Support Networks?
Teacher support networks offer vital encouragement for educators, by creating a platform for teachers to share experiences, and connect deeply with one another. They create a space to share resources, coping strategies or tips to deal with challenges. They are a wonderful space for international teachers who have relocated, as they can offer a sense of belonging, practical advice in a new country, or even just much needed emotional support during the transition period.??
Great Support Networks in the UK For Educators?
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Here are some great resources and networks we hope will help you on the days you’re feeling blue and need some extra motivation.??
Support Networks Begin at Your School: Your colleagues are your closest friends in your professional community. Don't hesitate to lean on them for guidance, share experiences, and exchange ideas. Whether it's seeking tips on classroom management, advice on curriculum development, or simply a listening ear during challenging times, your fellow teachers can offer invaluable support. So, take that first step, reach out, and discover the wealth of knowledge and encouragement waiting for you within your teaching community.?
Find Great Tips on The Education Support Website: Not only do they have an active helpline, but The Education Support Website offers great resources for individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, or burnout in the education realm. Access their library here: ??
Join Free, Curated Networking Events with Connect: This networking event brings together a diverse group of education professionals, including exclusive teachers, Early Career Teachers (ECTs), Senior Leadership Team (SLT) candidates, international teachers, teaching assistants, and SEN TAs. The event provides a platform for these candidates to directly engage with potential employers in a professional but relaxed environment. Although these events are aimed for teachers to meet potential employers, they provide ample opportunities for teachers to meet, share experiences, and even build professional relationships.?
Ethnic Minority Teacher Associations: These organisations aim to support teachers from ethnic minority backgrounds and promote diversity and inclusion in education. Examples include:?
Online Communities and Forums: Platforms like Twitter and Facebook groups allow teachers to easily connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and locations, fostering collaboration, idea-sharing, and the exchange of best practices. There are many Facebook teacher groups, so we suggest choosing one that resonates with you most.?
At Teach Now, we believe it's not just about surviving the school year; it's about thriving – both personally and professionally. By nurturing these connections, we're not just building a safety net for ourselves; we're also creating a ripple effect of positivity that extends far beyond the four walls of our classrooms. Because when teachers feel supported, empowered, and valued, magic happens. Students flourish, creativity soars, and suddenly, Mondays don’t seem so daunting after all.??
So, reach out, lend a hand, and let's cultivate a community of kindness, collaboration, and maybe just a hint of teacher-themed humour along the way. After all, laughter is the best medicine – especially when there's a mountain of paperwork waiting for you on Monday morning!?