PAIGE MULLER |

My Teaching Philosophy

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Vallejo`s quote resonates with the values I want to convey in my own practice of teaching by making a difference in young children's lives. Educators have the responsibility to share their knowledge, to help children understand the world around them. I want children to feel that strong sense of belonging and self confidence when walking into the classroom each day. In order for this to be successful, this extends far beyond the curriculum as a part of teaching is building special connections and understanding the children's needs and motivation in order for them to thrive in and out of the classroom.

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Professional Knowledge

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Each child is unique and comes to school with their own life experiences. As educators we need to provide individualised learning experiences for all. I take pride in knowing my students and value making authentic and genuine connections with them as well as their families and support networks. My teaching pedagogy will have a holistic teaching approach reflecting on, paying attention to all children and their physical, personal, social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing and cognitive aspects of learning (AITSL, 2022). I take the time to engage in the children's worlds and share a strong value in education.

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Professional Practise

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Early education is dedicated to the early years of development. Seeing this through my personal experience in a reception class from the nervous children on their first day of school, compared to the same children half way through the year shows significant development. Not only was there a huge change in character, but also educational and social development which are all significant changes in their first years of education. This is the development I am proud to be a part of in the teaching field, helping children grow into themselves. Focusing equal attention on a child's individual strengths as well as their environment, resulting in a more comprehensive understanding of the child as a whole (Neale & Connolly, 2022). With the importance of play I value learning through seeing and doing and offer new ways of learning. I want to teach by example and radiate positive energy throughout the classroom. Valuing each child and their uniqueness I want them to feel confident in themselves and their learning to participate. Finding ways of teaching that each student can respond well to and actively participate.

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Professional engagement

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I Acknowledge there are always new ways of teaching and am willing to learn from others by building supportive networks with colleagues and families. I am aware that I am still developing as a teacher and in particular would love to learn more about complex behaviour management and how to best assist children with additional needs. My reflective approach to teaching allows myself as a teacher to continually improve my pedagogy and skills in the profession of teaching. I believe in working in collaboration with other teachers and sharing resources, especially as a new graduate teacher. Communication is another key aspect, with the intent of the child's learning and wellbeing as the key focus. This includes keeping families updated, asking colleagues for help and as well as their professional opinions. I also acknowledge I am a life learner and model this to my students, while still maintaining high levels of teaching and learning. My understanding is that the engagement of the subjectivity of the learner is central to effective learning and development (Dooley, 2008)