Good At One Thing - Teaching | Tales from Around the World

Teaching in Siberia was a journey unlike any other—a whirlwind of icy temperatures, warm hearts, and unforgettable experiences. While the allure of this remote region may not be for everyone, for me, it was the people that made it truly remarkable. Nestled in a small town, three hours deep into Siberia, I embarked on a teaching adventure driven not by climate or financial gain, but by the promise of cultural immersion and human connection. And indeed, I discovered that with the coldest of climates came the warmest of people. From the moment I arrived, the Russian people welcomed me into their lives with open arms and boundless respect. Their hospitality knew no bounds, as they shared their customs, traditions, and, of course, their hearty Russian cuisine. Living in a high-rise block of flats, I was fortunate to have a wonderful woman as a host, who treated me to delicious homemade Russian meals every evening. Her warmth and generosity made me feel at home in this far-flung corner of th...

Teaching in Siberia was an adventure filled with unexpected delights, from bouncy Lada rides to unforgettable culinary experiences. One weekend, my colleagues and I were invited to the house of one of the children we taught—a gesture of hospitality that would leave a lasting impression. As we embarked on our journey in the bounciest Lada I had ever encountered, I found myself gaining a newfound appreciation for the sturdy Russian vehicle. Despite the icy roads and frozen terrain, the trusty Lada navigated the rugged landscape with ease, delivering us safely to our destination. Arriving at the house, we were greeted by the warmth of extended family members who had already gathered. The aroma of pelmeni—a traditional Russian dumpling—filled the air, signalling the start of a culinary feast that would tantalise the taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Pelmeni, often hailed as "the heart of Russian cuisine," is a beloved dish with debated origins, whether from the Ural or S...

Teaching in Siberia was a journey unlike any other—a whirlwind of icy temperatures, warm hearts, and unforgettable experiences. While the allure of this remote region may not be for everyone, for me, it was the people that made it truly remarkable. Nestled in a small town, three hours deep into Siberia, I embarked on a teaching adventure driven not by climate or financial gain, but by the promise of cultural immersion and human connection. And indeed, I discovered that with the coldest of climates came the warmest of people. From the moment I arrived, the Russian people welcomed me into their lives with open arms and boundless respect. Their hospitality knew no bounds, as they shared their customs, traditions, and, of course, their hearty Russian cuisine. Living in a high-rise block of flats, I was fortunate to have a wonderful woman as a host, who treated me to delicious homemade Russian meals every evening. Her warmth and generosity made me feel at home in this far-flung ...

Teaching amidst the rainy season in Thailand posed its own unique challenges. Daily commutes involved navigating floodwaters on the back of a motorbike , and the occasional encounter with snakes finding their way into the classroom became part of the routine. Yet, amidst these obstacles, both students and teachers displayed a remarkable resilience and spirit that was truly inspiring. One aspect of Thai culture that left an indelible impression on me was the mode of transportation to school. Travelling by boat through the aromatic canal waters provided an experience unlike any other—an assault on the senses that somehow added to the charm and uniqueness of my teaching environment. Navigating Bangkok's bustling streets during peak hour traffic is an adventure in itself, an exhilarating blend of chaos and rhythm. Tuk-tuks dart through narrow alleyways, weaving between cars and motorcycles with remarkable agility, their drivers expertly navigating the labyrinthine maze of streets. Fo...

Teaching abroad has been an incredible journey that has transformed not just my professional life, but also my personal beliefs and values . Through my experiences in Thailand, Siberia, Austria, Colombia, and China, I've come to understand and appreciate the richness of cultural diversity in a profound way. One of the most impactful realisations from my time teaching abroad is that regardless of colour or religion, we are all fundamentally the same . We share the same joys and face the same difficulties in family life. This understanding has fostered a deep sense of empathy and connection with people from all walks of life. Travelling and teaching in diverse settings opened my eyes to the beauty of different cultures . I learned to respect and cherish each culture equally, recognising the unique traditions, customs, and perspectives they offer. Whether it was enjoying the vibrant festivals in Thailand, experiencing the warmth of Siberian hospitality, savouring the rich culinary tr...

Teaching is not merely a profession; it's a journey of continuous growth and development. Every classroom, every lesson, and every student interaction plays a pivotal role in shaping a teacher's identity and pedagogical approach. Whether one finds themselves in a dream position or grappling with challenges , each teaching experience contributes to the intricate mosaic of skills, perspectives, and wisdom that defines an educator. In this blog, we'll explore how every teaching position molds teachers, fostering a unique blend of expertise and empathy that enriches their professional journey. Embracing the Learning Curve As educators, we often hear about the importance of lifelong learning . While this concept extends far beyond the classroom, it finds its essence in the daily experiences of teachers. Every teaching position, whether it's your first role fresh out of university or a seasoned veteran in a prestigious institution, presents a learning curve . The challenges...