As a parent or student, you want to feel confident that the teachers you interact with are committed to providing the best possible education. Teachers play an essential role in shaping students, and they must demonstrate values and attributes to foster a positive learning environment. Let us explore professional teacher values and attributes and what they mean for you.
High expectations and commitment to learning
Professional teachers have high expectations of all students and are committed to their learning, personal growth, and well-being. Teachers strive to create a classroom environment that encourages students to achieve their full potential. They provide opportunities for students to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and develop the skills they need to succeed.
High standards of professional behaviour
Teachers also adopt high standards of behaviour in their professional role and maintain up-to-date knowledge and understanding of the professional duties of teachers and the statutory framework they work within. It means that teachers adhere to ethical and legal standards and are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of their students. They continually educate themselves to stay informed of best practices and emerging trends in education.
Contribution to workplace policies and practice
Professional teachers contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies and practices in the workplace, including those designed to promote equality of opportunity. Therefore, teachers are proactive in identifying ways to improve the learning environment ensuring all students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Ethical conduct
Teachers demonstrate ethical conduct marked by personal integrity, respect for others, and fairness in their interactions with students, colleagues, parents, and those in the wider community. Teachers treat all individuals with dignity and respect, communicate effectively and honestly, and maintain appropriate boundaries in all relationships.
Establishing professional relationships
Professional teachers establish fair, trusting, supportive, and constructive working relationships with students to progress their learning and achievement. They work effectively with colleagues to develop the curriculum and enhance the learning and well-being of students. Teachers collaborate with colleagues to share new ideas about teaching and learning to improve subject and professional knowledge and practice. They also establish professional relationships with colleagues in other institutions, professional bodies, and educational organizations, including Cambridge International, to develop professional practice.
At the heart of an exceptional education system are teachers who embody professional values and attributes that inspire and motivate their students. The commitment of teachers to personal growth and learning, as well as the well-being of their students, creates a culture of excellence that enables students to achieve their full potential. By contributing to the development, implementation, and evaluation of policies and practices, teachers help to create a safe and equitable environment for all students. Teachers also establish fair, trusting, and supportive relationships with their students, which are critical to progressing student learning and achievement. Collaboration with colleagues to develop the curriculum, enhance the learning and well-being of students, and share new ideas about teaching and learning are other crucial aspects of professional relationships that teachers must establish.
The values and attributes of professional teachers are fundamental to shaping the future of our society. By providing quality education, teachers inspire and motivate the next generation to excel. As a community, let us continue to support and recognise the hard work and dedication of our teachers, who have the power to shape the minds and lives of our children for the better. Let us never forget that a great teacher can change everything.
