JOURNAL REFLECTION

Today was the last day of my teaching placement at the Guardian Early
Learning centre, Richmond. I still cannot believe this journey full of learning
experiences has now come to an end. However, this student teaching has been
the best, most informational and inspiring experience in many years.
Generally, I had a great time with my students, and I could not have asked for a
better report with my cooperating teacher. I felt supported from day one, and
she gave me the confidence I needed to keep progressing. Interacting with my
students was fantastic, and I was very surprised at how much the children
taught me, from everything to relationship to kinder practices. More
specifically, there were three parts of my student teaching experience that
stick out to me as the most strength for the semester: relationship, planning
and time management.

Today was a day full of emotions, I was sad that I was leaving this amazing
children and staff but at the same time I was happy that this experience has
taught me so much. This time during mat time lesson, I thanked children for all
the contribution that they made in helping me grow as a teacher. I asked
comments and feedback from children as well as the educators. I could not
help but to tear up a little to cheer me up and everyone around. Today I sat
back and reflected on my experience being at the GELC, Richmond. Throughout
the semester I was able to create a really great atmosphere in the space. I was
little worried about a few of my lesson early on but I got to know the students
better and establish relationship with students, it was easy to tell that they
bought into what I was teaching them considerably more.

Now, that my PEP folder looked great and organised to share with children. I
went around in the room and showed their learning experiences. I baked a
cake with children as the first time of baking bread was not the successful
experience. Children had great time baking it again today as thy all mixed the
ingredients and helped me clean up afterwards.

I learned many things throughout my student teaching experiences, which will

shape the way I teach for years to come. The biggest and most important thing
during student teaching is to be confident. In the beginning of the semester, I
was a little timid with my students, even while presenting them information
that I know backwards and forwards. After a couple of weeks, however, I was
more comfortable in front of the class. My increased confidence in the class, I
had more fun with teaching and my students had worked to stem some of the
problems I had with classroom management. I learned that respect and
confidence will go a long way in terms of connecting and maintaining
relationships with your students, which does help the classroom atmosphere
and performance.