Tomorrow is World Teachers’ Day, so take the opportunity to say thank you to the teachers that made a positive difference in your life, says Kathryn Lovewell.
I take for granted that my toilet flushes, that the bin men come every Tuesday and that, when I pull the cord in my bathroom, the light comes on. I take for granted that I can drink the water from the tap, I can access information from my phone and – especially at this time of year – that my central heating will come on in the morning
We take a great deal for granted in life, especially the fundamentals, like being able to read and write. Most of us have also taken our teachers for granted.
Take a moment to consider the skills you have now and the person that taught these skills to you. Remember your first English teacher, who taught you the ‘i before e’ rule, your ABC’s and the difference between a noun and a verb.
Remember your first Maths teacher who taught you to add and subtract, to tell the time and explained the 24 hour clock, even though there’s only twelve numbers on a clock face.
Tomorrow is World Teachers’ Day – a UNESCO initiative that celebrates teachers around the world. Since 1994, WTD is held annually on October 5, to raise awareness and address the issues pertinent to teachers: whilst recognising the contribution they make to education.
Isn’t it curious that one of the most pivotal professions in our society, that impacts our young people, influences our leaders of tomorrow and affects the way we live our life, rarely receives the respect or acknowledgement it deserves.
Teachers and school communities are a vital component to the healthy functioning of our society and yet in the UK, teacher morale is in crisis, external criticism is rife and sickness due to stress is exploding.
Tomorrow is the day to appreciate teachers and the extraordinary job they do to teach, support and inspire our children. As you finish this article, raise a glass to the teachers that inspired you. Say thank you to the teachers that made a positive difference in your life.
Start singing the praises to your children’s Head teacher, the governors of their school and your MP’s, about a teacher that has helped, encouraged or inspired your child to grow, progress and understand the world.
Teachers are the most valuable resource in education. It’s time to appreciate their value in our society. You cannot put a price on inspiring a child to be the best they can be. Teachers are the unsung heroes of our communities.
Today of all days, let’s acknowledge and celebrate their foundational influence in our lives.
I will be saying thank you to the fantastic teacher who, thirty years ago, taught me to make the best sponge cake ever, that still leaves my whole family salivating and in awe of my baking prowess. Thank you Mrs. Edgel.