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...

In the heart of South Wales, lies a small local school that forever changed the course of my life. It's been demolished and changed into flats now but it was there, during a week-long work experience placement , that I had a revelation—an epiphany that ignited a passion within me and set me on a path that would ultimately shape my future. Assisting the class teacher for that brief but transformative week, I found myself immersed in the vibrant world of primary education. From helping children write and read to guiding them through creative tasks and activities, I discovered an innate connection with the young learners before me. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and boundless energy filled me with a sense of purpose and fulfilment unlike anything I had experienced before. As I watched the children eagerly engage with their lessons, their eyes alight with curiosity, I knew with unwavering certainty that I wanted to work with children. It was a moment of clarity—a realisation that I pos...

Throughout my journey as an educator, I have been fortunate to encounter a myriad of individuals who have inspired and guided me along the way. From family members who were teachers themselves to mentors who took me under their wing, each person has left an indelible mark on my path to becoming a teacher. One of the first inspirations in my life was my aunt, who spent her career as a dedicated educator. Her passion for teaching and unwavering commitment to her students served as a guiding light for me , igniting my own desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others through education. As I embarked on my teaching career, I carried her wisdom and dedication with me, striving to emulate her unwavering dedication and compassion. Throughout my education and early teaching years, I encountered numerous teachers who served as mentors and role models. These individuals went above and beyond to support me, offering guidance, encouragement, and invaluable insights into the art of teach...

Teaching is not just a profession ; it's a journey filled with adventure, challenges, and moments of profound discovery. As someone who has dedicated their entire career to education, my journey began in the vibrant and culturally rich country of Thailand . Fresh out of university, I found myself teaching in a private Catholic school for boys—a setting vastly different from my upbringing in the UK. The moment I stepped into the classroom, I was struck by the stark differences in culture and discipline between the two countries. However, what truly captivated me was the boundless enthusiasm and eagerness of the children to learn English. In a class of 40 five-year-old students, each face radiated with curiosity and determination, despite the challenges they faced. One of the most heart warming memories I carry from my teaching experiences is the simple yet profound gesture of children wanting to hold my hand as we walked to lunch. Their innocent enthusiasm and genuine affection fi...