My ultimate goal is to be a fulltime classroom teacher at a Catholic school. I have many reasons for wanting to do so – the main one is to impart my knowledge as a practicing Catholic upon the students I teach.
My understanding of Catholic Education and Schooling revolves around an all inclusive environment which fosters the type of teaching where students can become better citizens as the future generation of our world.
-
The Catholic School is a place of evangelisation
The concept of the Catholic school being a place of evangelisation has been instilled in me throughout my education. In being a place of evangelisation, I believe that children need to be taught in a positive environment where the Religious Education Curriculum is a prominent feature in all aspects of teaching and learning. Discipline and faith must be incorporated in daily school life, and this can be achieved by acting assertively towards all students, parents and staff, as well as ensuring that each individual student gains meaning within their life.
-
Teachers are ambassadors of the Catholic faith
Catholic Education and Schooling needs to be embraced by teachers and I believe the best way of doing so is by being a practicing Catholic. Being accepted as a Catholic through the blessed Sacraments means that I have personal experiences of attending mass on a regular basis with sufficient knowledge to extend the learning of my students. I understand that there will always be children at school who do not attend services, but I can easily bring a spiritual and reflective tone to my classroom by having a space dedicated to Jesus and Mary. I personally believe prayer provides an essence of self discovery and inner peace when presented in a meaningful manner.
-
Catholic doctrine is significant in students’ lives
It is important to incorporate the doctrine of love into Catholic Education and Schooling. This fundamental belief – to love one another as Jesus loves you – can be shown by being a positive role model to all students, and encouraging them to reach their full potential. Students can reach their full potential with sufficient support from me as a classroom teacher; by teaching innovative lessons which maximise participation; and providing a stimulating learning environment. By involving students in wider community events such as donating outgrown clothes or toys to charity, they actively participate in helping those less fortunate than themselves. This reinforces Jesus’ teachings as students can learn to love and appreciate others in their community.
-
Catholic Schooling and Education requires students to actively participate
I believe that children need to be educated in a holistic setting which is inclusive of all faiths and races. Such a setting is fostered by Catholic Schooling and Education through the teachings of the gospel values. It is important for children to understand the significance of religion in their daily lives; therefore, it is necessary for them to partake in liturgies, feast days and school masses throughout the year. Attending church services also allows students to explore their emotions; I can discuss their sense of celebration, joy or sadness during follow up lessons. I can continue to reinforce the themes of the liturgical year through a class display board featuring artwork and literary pieces by the students.
By adopting the beliefs, values and attitudes set in a school, I can work to deepen and develop my own faith as well as that of my students.
