BED150- Professional Experience Essay

During my recent primary school practical experience I observed the

many faces of teaching. I have always had a passion for teaching and this
placement has confirmed my vocation.
Throughout my week I was able to observe the primary classroom and its
dynamics, the effective organisation of the teacher and the positive ethos
within the classroom. As the week progressed I became more aware of the
children who required extra assistance and was able to provide this. It was
a wonderful experience to see the students gratitude and pride at being
able to complete what was for them a difficult task. I felt that through
helping them and recognising their strengths and weaknesses I was able
to witness one aspect of teaching. After observing my mentor teachers
exceptional organisational skills I felt I was able to take on board these
skills when planning for my whole class lesson. My suitability and potential
for teaching was highlighted from the feedback I received from my whole
class lesson. This feedback had both commendations and
recommendations that I will be able to reflect on in order to develop my
teaching skills.
Over the course of the week I had time to reflect on my many interactions
with the students. On completion of the whole class lesson the students
watched a movie which allowed me to reflect on teaching strategies that I
used. This reflection included the highlights of the lesson and areas in
which I could improve. The feedback I received from my mentor allowed
me to compare my reflection with hers.
My practical experience has made me see that teaching is a profession of
continuing learning and reflection. From my observations with the small
group activity I felt that I hadnt given the students an engaging lesson. It
was obvious that some students had not comprehended the concept and
required additional one to one support. If I were to repeat this activity I
would implement more effective strategies to ensure understanding by all
students.
After observing my mentor teacher for just a week I grew to have so much
respect for her. She allowed me to have an insight into the numerous
complex and difficult duties a teacher holds. While attending my
placement, book week occurred and my teacher was responsible for
organising a raffle for the school. It was due to her exceptional
organisation skills that she was able to cope with this extra task. Many
times throughout the week different situations arose where my mentor
would have to adapt and be flexible to changes in the timetable. As an
upper primary teacher my mentor had many other duties to perform.
These included organising Year 6 camp, numeracy week and senior sport.
It became evident to me that although teaching was her main role, there
were many other roles she had to take on.

Chrissie Cairns 32618864

Bed150 Professional Experience Essay

Over the course of the week at primary school it allowed me to view and
analyse the classroom function and the roles and responsibilities of both
the teacher and other staff. This practical experience has made me more
enthusiastic and excited for my teaching journey ahead.

Chrissie Cairns 32618864

Bed150 Professional Experience Essay