Professional+Statement

==I believe problem-based learning, where the child is central to the planning and teaching cycle, will best enable challenging lessons that involve higher-order thinking. The lessons need to draw from student’s existing knowledge, by identifying what they know, what they think they know, and what they want to know in order to make the learning impressionable. Concepts should be presented in an engaging and authentic manner, linking real world applications with the classroom.==

==A discursive classroom environment is also vital to ensure students make the learning personal and connect with the concept through curiosity, prediction, engagement and honest questioning. Where possible, lessons should be delivered in an open-ended format, catering for a range of abilities with multiple entry points. Constant teacher reflection and observation of students will enable targeted lessons that cater to students’ needs, backgrounds, perspectives and interests. All forms of assessment must be considered vital information in planning and informing the learning and teaching cycle.==

==Assessment can only look at what has been learned already, and therefore the moment chosen to observe must be carefully planned, seamlessly integrated, and cautiously interpreted. Assessment for Learning should include peer assessments, self-assessments and frequent opportunities for the students to reflect on explicit learning objects to ensure that they become increasingly skillful at appraising their work.==

==As a life-long learner, I am committed to being a reflective practitioner. I aim to make my own learning and critical reflection explicit as I encourage my students to do likewise and increase their own self-awareness.==

==Communication with families and caregivers forms an important component of my teaching practice. A collaborative approach is beneficial for all stakeholders, and most importantly it promotes the value of education and positive, productive relationships. I like to maintain a classroom website to not only provide an easy way to communicate with parents and caregivers but also to provide a familiar format for us to publish student work. Students viewing their work on a website assists them to strive for excellence and recognise their gifts and abilities.==

==I hope that my students not only construct curriculum knowledge in the classroom and wider school community, but social skills, values and priorities for life. My role as a teacher involves very little telling, but a great deal of enabling in as many facets of life as possible.==