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Unlocking Student Success: What Students Really Want from Their Teachers

When it comes to education, the relationship between students and teachers is one of the most important factors influencing success in the classroom. While every student is unique, there are some common characteristics and qualities they generally seek from their teachers.

Understanding these needs can help educators build stronger connections with their students and create a more effective learning environment.

1. Approachability and support

Students want to feel comfortable approaching their teachers. They need to know that they can ask questions, seek help, and have their concerns addressed without fear of judgment. A teacher who is approachable and supportive can create a positive atmosphere where students feel empowered to engage in the learning process.

This support doesn’t just apply to academic challenges; emotional and social support is equally important. Many students find themselves facing personal struggles, and a teacher who can offer guidance and empathy can make a significant difference.

2. Clear communication and organisation

Clear communication is crucial in the classroom. Students appreciate teachers who explain lessons in a straightforward way and set clear expectations for assignments and assessments. It helps them feel organised and confident in their ability to meet deadlines and understand the material. A well-structured lesson plan, clear instructions, and timely feedback all contribute to a positive learning experience.

Students also value transparency when it comes to grading and assessments. Being open about the criteria for success and giving constructive feedback allows students to understand how they can improve and meet their academic goals.

3. Fairness and respect

Students want to feel respected by their teachers and treated as equals. They expect fairness in the classroom, with all students being given the same opportunities to succeed. Teachers who show respect for their students’ opinions, ideas, and perspectives create an inclusive environment where every student feels valued.

By listening to students’ concerns and taking their input seriously, teachers can help create a more collaborative and respectful classroom dynamic.

4. Enthusiasm and passion for the subject

When teachers are passionate about the subject they teach, it can inspire students to feel the same way. Enthusiasm for the material makes lessons more engaging and memorable. A teacher who brings energy and excitement to the classroom can ignite curiosity and motivate students to learn.

This passion can be contagious, helping students to develop their own interest and enthusiasm for the subject.

5. Flexibility and understanding

Not all students learn in the same way, and sometimes life events or personal circumstances may affect a student’s ability to perform at their best. Students want teachers who are flexible and understanding, recognising that everyone has different learning styles and challenges.

Flexibility in assignment deadlines, offering alternative ways to demonstrate understanding, or providing extra support outside of class hours are all ways that teachers can show empathy and understanding towards their students.

6. Encouragement and motivation

One of the most powerful things a teacher can offer is encouragement. Positive reinforcement can motivate students to keep going, even when they struggle. Students want teachers who will push them to be their best while offering a supportive and encouraging environment. A few words of encouragement can make a significant difference in boosting a student’s self-esteem and determination to succeed.

7. A sense of purpose

Students want to know that what they are learning has meaning and relevance. Teachers who can connect the material to real-world applications or personal interests help students see the value in what they’re studying.

This connection to real-life situations can increase motivation and make learning feel more purposeful. When students understand why something matters, they’re more likely to engage with the material and take ownership of their learning.

8. Encouraging independence and critical thinking

While students need support and guidance, they also want to develop their own critical thinking skills and independence. A teacher who encourages students to think for themselves, question ideas, and come to their own conclusions is preparing them for success beyond the classroom.

Students want opportunities to explore their ideas and develop problem-solving skills in a safe environment.

9. Personal connections

Lastly, students want teachers who genuinely care about them as individuals. Building personal connections helps build trust and encourages students to feel like they belong.

Whether it’s taking the time to chat with a student after class or showing an interest in their hobbies and extracurricular activities, these small gestures can go a long way in building rapport and creating a positive learning environment.

— When teachers strive to meet these needs, they create an environment where students feel empowered to learn and grow, leaving a lasting impact on their academic journeys. To find your next teaching opportunity and make a real difference, contact our friendly team today.

Getting a Part-Time Job: Why Teaching Could Be the Perfect Fit

In today’s world, many people – especially students, parents, or those looking to supplement their income – are turning to part-time jobs to gain experience, earn extra cash, and develop valuable skills.  

A part-time role can offer flexibility, independence, and a sense of purpose, all while helping you build a strong foundation for future career opportunities. If you’re considering taking on a part-time job, here’s why it can be a wise decision and why teaching, in particular, could be the perfect fit for many. 

1. Gain financial independence 

The most immediate benefit of a part-time job is the extra income. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, contributing to household bills, or simply want to enjoy a bit more financial freedom, a part-time role can provide the financial flexibility needed to manage your day-to-day expenses. This can help reduce stress and give you greater control over your financial situation. 

2. Develop essential skills 

A part-time job is a fantastic way to gain transferable skills that will serve you well throughout your career. From communication and problem-solving to time management and customer service, the skills you learn while working part-time can make you more employable and better equipped for the future. Many of these skills are highly sought-after by employers and can enhance your resume. 

3. Work-life balance 

One of the most appealing aspects of a part-time job is the flexibility it offers. Many part-time positions allow you to set your own hours or work around your other commitments, such as school, family, or personal projects. This balance means you can earn money without sacrificing your well-being or your ability to pursue other interests. 

4. Build your network and professional relationships 

Even in a part-time role, you’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and build professional relationships. This network can be valuable when it comes to future job opportunities or career advice. Part-time work allows you to interact with others in your industry or field of interest, helping you expand your circle and gain insight into different career paths. 

5. Try new things 

A part-time job is the perfect opportunity to try something new or test the waters to see if a particular career path is right for you, all while gaining valuable experience. Exploring new roles or getting involved in an area you enjoy can be an eye-opening experience, potentially opening doors to other opportunities for your personal and professional growth. 

Why Teaching Is a Great Part-Time Job Option 

While there are many types of part-time jobs to consider, teaching stands out as an option that offers a unique blend of personal fulfilment and professional development. Whether you’re tutoring, supporting in a classroom, or mentoring students, part-time teaching roles can be especially rewarding. Here’s why: 

1. Make a difference in someone’s life 

One of the most fulfilling aspects of teaching is the ability to positively impact others. Whether you’re helping a student overcome a difficult topic or inspiring someone to pursue their educational goals, teaching gives you the chance to make a real difference in a person’s life. This sense of purpose can be incredibly rewarding and give your work greater meaning. 

2. Enhance communication and leadership skills 

Teaching requires strong communication and leadership skills. As a tutor or classroom assistant, you’ll need to explain concepts clearly, manage different learning styles, and motivate students. These skills are transferable to many other careers, whether you’re in business, customer service, or management. Teaching also helps you grow as a leader, as you learn to manage groups, handle challenging situations, and adapt your approach to meet the needs of your students. 

3. Flexible hours and a positive work environment 

Part-time teaching roles, especially tutoring or private lessons, often allow you to set your own schedule. This flexibility makes teaching an ideal choice for those looking to balance work with other commitments. Furthermore, teaching tends to be a positive and collaborative environment where you can build meaningful relationships with students and colleagues alike. 

4. Opportunities for personal growth 

Teaching isn’t just about helping others – it also offers opportunities for personal growth. As you teach, you deepen your own understanding of subjects, develop a range of organisational skills, and learn how to motivate others. These experiences contribute to your personal development and can build confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities that will benefit you both personally and professionally. 

When it comes to part-time job options, teaching stands out due to its unique combination of flexibility, personal fulfilment, and the chance to positively influence others.  

If you are considering a part-time job that goes beyond just earning money, teaching could be the perfect fit. Contact our friendly team today to find your next opportunity. 

Celebrating Programming for Primaries: Inspiring the Next Generation of Coders

On March 8th, schools, tech companies, and educators around the world will join forces to celebrate Programming for Primaries, an exciting initiative aimed at introducing young learners to the world of coding and digital literacy.  

This day is about igniting curiosity and providing the tools and skills needed for children to thrive in an increasingly digital world. But beyond the event itself, the key question remains: how can we raise awareness about the importance of teaching coding to primary school-aged children and ensure that they have access to the right resources? 

Why programming for primaries matters 

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, programming has become a fundamental skill. From everyday apps to cutting-edge artificial intelligence, the digital tools that shape our lives are built through code.  

Introducing programming at the primary school level helps kids understand how these tools work, promotes problem-solving, and fosters creativity and collaboration. 

Incorporating coding into primary school curriculums also ensures that children aren’t just passive consumers of technology – they become creators. This early exposure can inspire a passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields and open doors for future careers in tech, which continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic industries globally. 

However, despite the growing importance of programming skills, there’s still a gap in how many young children are exposed to coding. The Programming for Primaries initiative aims to change that by making coding accessible to children from an early age, regardless of their background or school resources. 

Start with teachers 

Teachers are the backbone of any educational initiative. To successfully integrate coding into primary schools, we need to equip teachers with the knowledge and resources to teach it. 

Training and workshops specifically focused on coding in primary education can help educators feel more confident in delivering coding lessons. Collaboration with tech companies and digital organisations can provide teachers with up-to-date resources, lesson plans, and even guest speakers who can bring coding to life for young students. 

Involve parents and the community 

It’s important to raise awareness beyond the classroom. Parents and local communities play a key role in shaping a child’s relationship with technology. Hosting coding workshops or information sessions for parents can help them understand the value of programming and how they can support their children’s learning at home. 

School open days or after-school events where children can demonstrate the coding projects they’ve worked on can also highlight the importance of this skill to the broader community. By involving parents, we build a culture of learning that extends beyond school walls. 

Highlight female representation in coding 

One of the key areas of focus in raising awareness is ensuring that coding and tech fields are welcoming to all children, regardless of gender. Women have historically been underrepresented in STEM fields, and early exposure to coding can be a powerful tool in closing this gender gap. 

Organising events or workshops specifically aimed at encouraging girls to engage with coding is one way to combat this disparity. Showcasing female role models in tech, such as female coders, software developers, and tech entrepreneurs, can also inspire young girls to see themselves in these roles.  

Leverage technology and online resources 

In a world where online learning is more accessible than ever, there are a plethora of digital tools and platforms designed to teach coding to young children. Websites like Scratch, Code.org, and Tynker offer free resources that make learning to code interactive and fun. These platforms often feature gamified lessons, so children can learn at their own pace while being motivated by rewards and challenges. 

Sharing these resources with schools, teachers, and parents is crucial. Many schools may not have the budget to invest in physical coding equipment or full-time coding specialists, but free online resources can level the playing field and make programming accessible to all. 

Partnering with local tech companies 

Local tech companies and startups can play a huge role in promoting programming for young children. Partnerships between schools and tech companies can provide access to coding workshops, internships, or mentorship programmes for young students. Hosting coding competitions for primary school-aged children can help raise excitement around programming while also creating teamwork and problem-solving skills. 

These collaborations can also help connect students with real-world applications of coding. When children see how coding is used in industries such as gaming, app development, and even healthcare, they may be more inclined to pursue coding as a serious interest. 

Promote the fun side of coding 

Lastly, it’s crucial to show that coding isn’t just about writing lines of text on a screen – it’s a creative and fun endeavour. Games, music, animations, and even robotics can all be part of the coding experience. By framing programming as a fun, creative activity rather than a technical skill, we can engage more children and make them excited to explore the world of coding. 

Encouraging children to create their own video games, build simple robots, or even code their own interactive stories can make the process enjoyable while teaching them valuable skills. 

Programming for Primaries is an important step in helping the next generation of children develop the coding skills they’ll need for the future. By raising awareness we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the world of programming.  

To find out more about the opportunities for education roles in technology-related subjects, please contact our team today. 

Why Creative Subjects Are Important to Learn at School

In today’s rapidly changing world, the importance of a well-rounded education is more significant than ever. While subjects like Maths, English, and Science dominate the curriculum, creative subjects such as Art, Music, Drama, and Design Technology often don’t receive the attention they deserve.  

However, these subjects play a crucial role in a child’s development and should be embraced for their ability to enhance cognitive, emotional, and social skills – amongst many other things. 

Developing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking 

Creative subjects encourage students to think outside the box. In subjects like Drama and Art, students are often presented with open-ended tasks that require them to explore different solutions and approaches.  

This process of experimentation nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are vital for success in the real world. By learning how to approach a problem creatively, students develop resilience and the ability to adapt to new challenges. 

Promoting Emotional Expression and Well-being 

Creative subjects provide students with an outlet for emotional expression, allowing them to process their thoughts and feelings in a constructive way. Whether through painting, writing a play, or composing music, students have the opportunity to express their emotions and understand themselves better.  

This is particularly important in today’s society, where mental health awareness is growing. Creative activities can serve as a form of therapy, promoting better mental well-being and helping students manage stress and anxiety. 

Encouraging Collaboration and Communication 

Many creative subjects, such as Drama, Music, and Group Art Projects, involve collaborative work. This allows students to develop essential communication and teamwork skills. In Drama, for example, students must work together to bring a script to life, often negotiating ideas and compromising to achieve a shared vision.  

Such collaboration teaches students how to listen, respect others’ opinions, and effectively communicate their own ideas — skills that are highly valued in both academic and professional settings. 

Enhancing Cultural Awareness 

Creative subjects provide students with the opportunity to explore different cultures, histories, and traditions. Whether through studying the works of famous artists, composers, or playwrights, or by engaging in creative projects that celebrate diverse cultures, students gain a broader understanding of the world around them.  

This cultural awareness is essential in fostering empathy, tolerance, and a global perspective, which are important qualities in our increasingly interconnected world. 

Building Confidence and Self-Esteem 

Engaging in creative activities allows students to express their individuality and take pride in their work. Successfully completing a creative project, whether it’s a painting, a performance, or a piece of music, can give students a sense of accomplishment and boost their confidence.  

These subjects also offer students the chance to experiment and make mistakes in a supportive environment, helping them build resilience and a growth mindset. Confidence gained through creative subjects can extend to other areas of their lives, enabling students to approach challenges with a positive attitude. 

Preparing for Future Careers 

While creative subjects might seem unrelated to more traditional career paths, the skills developed through them are invaluable in today’s workforce. Creative industries, such as advertising, design, media, and the arts, are thriving and offer numerous career opportunities.  

Even for students pursuing careers in more technical or scientific fields, creativity remains an essential skill. Innovation, a key driver of progress in any sector, often begins with creative thinking. By learning creative subjects, students are equipping themselves with skills that are highly sought after by employers across all industries. 

Providing a Balanced Education 

A well-rounded education is key to developing a range of skills and interests. Creative subjects complement traditional academic disciplines, providing a balance between logical, analytical thinking and imaginative, expressive thought.  

This holistic approach not only helps students discover their passions but also ensures that they develop a wide array of competencies that will serve them throughout their lives. 

Creative subjects are far more than just a way to pass the time — they are integral to a child’s education and personal growth. From fostering critical thinking and emotional expression to promoting collaboration and building confidence, the benefits of studying creative subjects are immense.  

As the world continues to evolve, it’s clear that creativity will play an ever-more crucial role in shaping future generations. Therefore, we must ensure that creative subjects remain a central part of the school curriculum, providing students with the tools they need to thrive in all aspects of life. 

To find out what creative teaching opportunities we have available, contact us today. 

How AI and New Technology Are Impacting the Education System

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies are reshaping industries across the globe, and education is no exception. As they continue to evolve, they offer new and exciting possibilities for transforming teaching and learning.  

From personalised education to automated administrative tasks, AI and other technologies are poised to dramatically impact the education system, creating both opportunities and challenges for students, educators, and institutions alike. 

Personalised learning: tailored education for every student 

One of the most exciting prospects of AI in education is its ability to deliver personalised learning experiences. Every student learns differently, and traditional one-size-fits-all teaching methods often fail to meet the needs of diverse learners. AI can analyse individual students’ learning styles, strengths, and weaknesses, and then adapt instructional content to fit their needs. 

For example, AI-powered platforms can offer real-time feedback on students’ progress, suggest resources based on their performance, and adjust the pace of lessons. These systems can even provide extra support to struggling students while allowing advanced learners to move ahead. This kind of personalised learning is especially beneficial in large classrooms where teachers may not have the time or resources to address each student’s unique needs. 

Automating administrative tasks: more time for teaching 

For educators, administrative duties can be time-consuming and take away from valuable teaching time. AI has the potential to automate many of these tasks, freeing up educators to focus more on student engagement and curriculum development. 

For instance, AI can assist in grading assignments, analysing student performance data, and even scheduling. Tools like chatbots can handle routine queries from students and parents, providing instant responses to frequently asked questions. By reducing the administrative burden, AI allows teachers to dedicate more time to interacting with students, encouraging creativity, and planning more engaging lessons. 

Enhancing classroom engagement with virtual reality 

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are transforming the way subjects are taught, making learning more immersive and interactive. With AR/VR tools, students can explore historical events, dive into the human body, or take virtual trips to distant places – all without leaving the classroom. This hands-on, experiential learning allows students to engage with the material in ways that traditional textbooks cannot replicate. 

For example, VR can take students on a tour of the Great Wall of China or immerse them in the solar system, offering experiences that are impossible to replicate in the real world. This not only makes learning more exciting but also helps students grasp complex concepts by visualising them in a tangible way. 

Improving access to education 

AI and digital tools are also playing a critical role in making education more accessible. Online learning platforms powered by AI can offer education to students in remote or underserved areas, breaking down geographical barriers. Students who may not have access to quality schools or specialised teachers can now take courses from top universities or experts in various fields, all from the comfort of their homes. 

Additionally, AI can assist students with disabilities, helping them overcome challenges they face in traditional educational settings. For instance, speech recognition software can aid students with dyslexia, while AI-driven text-to-speech applications can assist students with visual impairments. 

Data to improve educational outcomes 

AI’s ability to analyse vast amounts of data has the potential to revolutionise how we understand educational outcomes. By collecting and analysing data on student performance, behaviour, and engagement, AI can offer valuable insights into how teaching methods can be improved, and which students may be at risk of falling behind. 

Educational institutions can use this data to track student progress over time, identify gaps in learning, and intervene early if students are struggling. Predictive analytics can help guide students toward courses that align with their strengths and career goals, improving the chances of academic success and post-graduation employment. 

Skills for the future 

As technology evolves, so too must the skills students need to succeed in the future workforce. AI can support lifelong learning by offering flexible, on-demand education opportunities. Online platforms that utilise AI can recommend courses and learning paths based on a person’s career trajectory and personal interests, encouraging continuous skill development. 

Moreover, as AI and automation continue to transform industries, there will be a growing need for workers to adapt to new technologies. Educational systems will need to emphasise digital literacy, coding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills — areas where AI tools can provide support by offering simulations, training programmes, and real-world applications. 

Ethical considerations and challenges 

While AI holds great promise for the education system, it also presents several challenges and ethical concerns. One of the most significant concerns is data privacy. As AI systems collect data on students, it’s crucial that this information is protected and used ethically. Students’ personal data, including their learning habits and behavioural patterns, could potentially be exploited if not properly safeguarded. 

AI also raises concerns about academic integrity. AI-powered tools like essay generators and cheating detection systems can make it easier for students to cheat during exams or assignments. 

While these technologies can help detect plagiarism or unauthorised collaboration, they also pose a challenge in ensuring fairness. Educators will need to adapt assessment methods and leverage AI for both learning and monitoring to maintain academic honesty, creating a balanced approach to innovation and integrity in education. 

The role of teachers: enhancing, not replacing 

A common concern surrounding the rise of AI in education is the fear that machines will replace teachers. However, the role of teachers will never disappear. Instead, AI is meant to enhance the teaching experience by automating repetitive tasks and offering new tools for engagement. Teachers will still be needed to inspire, mentor, and provide emotional support, aspects of education that AI cannot replicate. 

Rather than replacing educators, AI can serve as a powerful assistant, allowing teachers to focus on building relationships, cultivating creativity, and providing personalised guidance to students. AI will help empower educators with tools to become more effective and efficient in their roles. 

A future of possibilities 

These tools have the potential to improve access to learning, create personalised experiences, and enhance educational outcomes. However, to fully realise these benefits, educators, policymakers, and technologists must work together to address the challenges and ensure that these innovations are implemented responsibly and ethically. 

As we look to the future, the combination of AI, AR/VR, and data analytics will not only transform how education is delivered but also how we think about learning itself. By embracing these new technologies, we can create a more inclusive, efficient, and dynamic education system that better prepares students for the rapidly changing world ahead. 

To find out how Bookmark can help your recruitment needs, contact our friendly experts today. 

National School Governors Awareness Day: Recognising the Vital Role of School Governors 

National School Governors Awareness Day, held on 13th February, is an important occasion to recognise and appreciate the significant contributions made by school governors in shaping the educational landscape.  

School governors play a crucial role in the success of schools across the UK, yet their efforts often go unnoticed. This day serves as an opportunity to shed light on their work, acknowledge their impact, and highlight the importance of their roles within the educational system. 

What is National School Governors Awareness Day? 

National School Governors Awareness Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the vital role school governors play in the governance and management of educational institutions. School governors are volunteers who work alongside headteachers and senior leadership teams to ensure that schools run smoothly, effectively, and in the best interests of their students. 

Held on 13th February each year, the day is an opportunity for schools, educational organisations, and communities to celebrate these individuals and highlight their commitment to improving the educational experience for children and young people. 

The Importance of School Governors 

School governors are an essential part of a school’s structure and governance. While they do not engage in the day-to-day running of the school, their role is strategic and involves long-term planning, decision-making, and oversight.  

They are responsible for setting the vision and values of the school, ensuring accountability, and monitoring the school’s overall performance. Governors come from a wide variety of backgrounds and bring a wealth of skills and perspectives to the governing board. 

Some key responsibilities of school governors include: 

1. Strategic oversight: Governors work with the headteacher and leadership team to develop and implement the school’s strategic plan. This includes setting priorities, defining goals, and ensuring the school is on track to achieve its objectives. 

2. Accountability and governance: Governors are tasked with holding the headteacher and senior leadership accountable for their actions and the performance of the school. They review school progress reports, set performance targets, and ensure that the school’s resources are used efficiently. 

3. Budget management: School governors play a critical role in managing the school’s finances. They approve budgets, ensure that funding is allocated appropriately, and monitor spending to ensure financial stability and sustainability. 

4. Quality of education: Governors work to ensure that the school provides a high-quality education for all students. This includes reviewing the curriculum, assessing the effectiveness of teaching, and supporting initiatives that enhance student achievement and well-being. 

5. Safeguarding and wellbeing: Ensuring the safety and welfare of students is a top priority for school governors. They work with the school to promote safeguarding policies, monitor the safety environment, and ensure that the wellbeing of students is always considered in decision-making. 

6. Community engagement: Governors play an important role in representing the interests of the local community. They build relationships with parents, teachers, local authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure that the school serves its community’s needs effectively. 

The Role Governors Play in Schools 

School governors act as the strategic backbone of a school. While the headteacher manages the day-to-day operations, governors provide the guidance and support needed to navigate long-term challenges and ensure the school’s vision is realised. They collaborate with staff, provide expert advice, and make difficult decisions that affect the future of the institution. 

A major part of their role is to remain impartial, providing objective viewpoints and ensuring that decisions are made based on the best interests of the students, teachers, and the wider community. This often involves engaging in open discussions, supporting professional development, and staying up to date with the latest educational trends and policies. 

Governors also serve as advocates for the school. Whether by representing the school in the local community, raising funds, or liaising with external organisations, their influence extends beyond the school gates. Their efforts help ensure that schools remain at the heart of their communities, with resources, support, and opportunities to thrive. 

Celebrating the Contributions of Governors 

National School Governors Awareness Day is a time to reflect on the invaluable role governors play and show appreciation for their hard work. Whether it’s through attending special events, writing thank-you notes, or publicly acknowledging their achievements, this day serves as a reminder of the dedication, time, and expertise governors contribute to schools. 

It’s also an opportunity to encourage others to consider becoming a school governor. With a diverse range of schools across the country, there is a need for governors from different backgrounds, professions, and experiences to join governing bodies and bring new perspectives to the table. 

To find out more about the opportunities available to you with Bookmark, contact our friendly team of advisors today.