Education is a political issue. Governments spend a great deal of time debating issues of funding, class sizes, private v public education, league tables, etc, etc. No doubt these are important issues. But nothing, absolutely nothing, can ever take the place of a dedicated and inspirational teacher. They, more than any political policy, have it in their power to influence for good the children they educate.
Why is that I remember one particular teacher, of all the teachers I had over the years? Quite simply because he was an inspiration. He noticed that I read over my age and quietly provided me with books which stretched me. He noticed that I could write, and was convinced that I would become a journalist, or wordsmith of some kind – I suppose he was right! He noticed that I had an interest in history, and encouraged me in that too. In a class of around 30 pupils, he had the unerring knack of spotting the potential of each one, and quietly and persistently nurturing the talents he saw. I owe him a huge debt as, I am sure, do many others.
Questions
- Is there a particular teacher in your life that you fondly remember?
- Why was Jesus such an effective teacher?
- What do you consider to be the qualities needed to be an inspirational teacher today?
londoninternetchurch
Peter Delaney
lyndamkeen
Revd Roger Hoath
