By Noah Kim
EDITION #11 – What does it mean to lead?
Published – 13th November 2019
Noah Kim is beginning the 2nd year of teaching after graduating from RMIT Brunswick in 2017
Taking up new roles in schools
In a profession that values growth and individual development, it is essential to think about possible areas that will build capacity and provide opportunities to demonstrate your abilities within the field.Each school may have different types of support for professional growth and development. In this article I’ll share my own experience in roles outside of the classroom.
At Featherbrook College we have Generalist Professional Learning Teams (PLT) with our year level group and Education Support staff, and we have Specialist PLTs in Maths, Literacy, SWPBS and Sustainability. They meet regularly to:
- analyse school-wide data
- plan and develop professional learning using teacher needs and feedback
- unpack how we are maintaining a shared understanding and consistent approach to curriculum areas throughout the school.
In the first year, graduates are not usually placed in a specialist PLT. However, last year I was offered the opportunity to join the Literacy PLT which provided a great development opportunity to refine my practice. During my time in the PLT, I was able to develop my understanding of best practice in literacy, collaboratively facilitate whole-school and cross-school moderation tasks and facilitate whole-school professional learning. By applying myself to this role, I was able to demonstrate my strengths within the school whilst also learning about the intricacies of school leadership and effective professional learning.
Here are some questions to prompt and challenge your thinking.
- What roles or opportunities are available within your school? How do you know?
- How are you demonstrating a ‘keenness’ for development and professional growth?
- Have you challenged yourself enough this year? Why/why not?
Seize any opportunity you can get with open arms. Consider opportunities such as being part of organising the book week activities, running lunch time activities or inviting colleagues into your space to observe your practice. If you are provided with an opportunity, take the time to think about how it will challenge, extend and develop you and your teaching.