TheEdJournal

In a recent conversation with another mum, I was presented with a thought-provoking question: “If you had to choose only three things that every child should learn at school, what would they be?” I paused and then answered confidently; “I want my children to learn to ask questions; I want my children to understand who they are and how they will develop, I want my children to learn how to be the best version of themselves.”

My response was instinctive, inherently rooted to my role as a mother. It later got me thinking, how my wishes as a parent for my own children, paired together with my wishes and actions as an educator. Are they the same?

Reflecting on this, I took to writing down what I had said to my friend and narrowed it down to my core values as a parent; curiosity, self-awareness, and personal growth. I then did the same for me, the teacher. I realised that the essence of my response as a mum to aligns to my ethos as an educator; 15 years ago, if you asked me my top three things, I would categorically linked it to teaching outstanding Science lessons, teaching to the test, delivery that was grade focussed, and a gaining positive value added at the end.

Now those things are not dismissed under my radar 15 years on, but teaching to the test is not meaningful learning and it’s not preparing today’s children for tomorrow’s world. I have evolved, the children in front of me have evolved; they are different to children 15 years ago, and most importantly, the world has evolved. What stood as top priority then, isn’t so now.

The entire reflective process underlined the simple principle for me and my ethos; it’s all about balance.

In closing, I turn this question to you, the reader: If you had to choose only three things that every child should learn at school, what would they be? Consider this question from your core values, and what you truly want or see the necessity for children to know for their future. Your reflections might just provide insightful perspectives on how we can collectively enhance our educational practices for the betterment of future generations.