As the summer holiday comes to an end, we begin to plan for the coming school year, getting our children's uniforms and bags ready and preparing them for a new academic schedule.
With this in mind, we asked Shanghai teachers to give their thoughts on how they embrace a new school year: from how to help children transition from lazy summer days to structured school schedules to the moment they know it's going to be a great year with their students.
So, as a new school year begins, let's see what the teachers of Shanghai have to say about embracing the year ahead. This week, we talk to Isla Gillespie, Head of Early Years at Britannica International School Shanghai.
As the Head of Early Years at Britannica International School Shanghai, the most important aspect for my department at the beginning of a new academic year is to ensure all children have a positive first experience as they start their educational journey.
My philosophy as a teacher is that children should always feel safe, secure and confident. It is only then that I believe learning will happen. This concept is especially true in the Early Years, where children are building the foundations to become lifelong learners. So, at the beginning of every academic year, this is at the heart and soul of my class and my department – to ensure children come running into school with enthusiasm and excitement to learn.
But how do we achieve this within the class? In the first few weeks of a new school year, our priority as teachers is getting to know each child and their families. In doing so, we start to understand the student's likes and dislikes, how they communicate and their interests; in a sense, who they are and what makes them 'tick.'
This is where the building of positive relationships and learning behaviors begins. Forming these is the most integral part of ensuring a child will learn throughout the year, and once this is established, it is onwards and upwards. I believe from the moment a new student smiles, giggles or laughs, then we know it is going to be a fantastic year.
Image via Britannica International School Shanghai
Image via Britannica International School Shanghai
[Cover image via Britannica International School Shanghai; Profile image via Isla Gillespie]
Isla Gillespie is Head of Early Years at Britannica International School Shanghai
