5 things that all new and graduate teachers must do

If only we could all turn back time. There are so many things that I wish that I could tell my first year self. Being a graduate is stressful and confronting. The reality is that university doesn’t always properly prepare you for the harsh yet rewarding truth. It is not the university systems fault. They try and give graduates in Australia many real life experiences. In Australia, graduates are also supported in their first year out. I, like many of you, work with graduates. People who want to make a difference and are excited to start their teaching journey. I hope that by sharing some of these tips, I can provide some simple ways that can keep you motivated and positive. These tips can also be used for other first year jobs.

1. Build relationships first: as hard as it is, get to know the people that you work with. What do they like, dislike, what are their strengths, family etc. This applies for parents. I firmly believe that relationships in schools are the core and if nothing else, strive to do this with as much energy and enthusiasm as possible.
2. Volunteer: it is a good way to put credit in the trust bank. If people can see that you are willing to go the extra mile, more often than not it will pay off in the long run. Volunteering for different things throughout the year is a great way to learn new skills and have new experiences. You can learn from others as well as show that you are a team player.
3. Accept feedback no matter how challenging or irrelevant: if a teacher offers you a tip, smile and take it and give it a go. Someone has had enough thought to want to help you or share their wisdom. Take it! Don’t just sit there and nod and never do it. I know how overwhelming your first year is. You will want to quit every week. Things will make you feel sick to your stomach. Use the advice while you can because you would be surprised at what works and what doesn’t. This is a great habit to get into, not just for your first year, but also your career.
4. Use your initiative: sometimes sitting back isn’t always the right play. The reality in a team is that people will get tired of you if you sit back. Most schools work in teams. Be proactive in making and sharing resources, sharing ideas and suggestions. It is definitely a fine balance. You certainly don’t want to seem to overstep you mark. If you are ever unsure simply ask.
5. Don’t complain: well not out loud anyway. Many teachers I speak to find this one hard to stomach. When you start your job and all you do is complain. You will be speaking to teachers who have been in this job for forty years. It looks poor when you complain after a few months. No matter how you feel, try and stay positive and smile.

 
No matter what, you will always remember your first grade. Doesn’t matter if it is mostly positive or the opposite, you will still remember it. There are definitely things that you could always do differently or try. Hopefully, some of the above tips have something that you could try and remember. After all, the first year is still one of the most memorable. The last thing that anyone wants, is to remember someone who doesn’t step up and complete their fair share of the work. Or a person who walks in and complains. Graduates, what would you like to really know? Teachers, think about what tips you wish that you could share with graduate teachers. (Besides get out while you can!)  #twocreativeteachers #graduate #teacher #education #firstyeartips