TESTIMONIALS

Finding a job that you are passionate about is the key to contentment. Luckily I thoroughly enjoy my work as a teacher’s aide; presently with a home schooling micro-class and previously within the public and private (Steiner) system.

​

          I suppose I have always been in awe of teachers and the amount of hard yards they cover. Initially I volunteered at my children’s schools before studying for ‘Certificate III Teachers Aide’ via an on-line course. During the practical part of the training, I chose a variety of schools to work in to experience the range of learning environments.

​

          On gaining my qualification, I initially worked at a Rudolf Steiner school where I learnt so much and liked the aim of ‘self-development’ in a wholistic manner, as a key philosophy. As in most school settings though, class numbers can affect the amount of individual attention a student receives, which is where the adult-to-child ratio becomes important.

​

          Since working alongside the wonderful Rachel Faith and her purposefully adapted home school setting, the advantages of smaller groups has become apparent. Every effort made by a child is noticed and relevantly praised either by a teacher or aide which in turn leads to a general ambience of positivity within the learning environment and further, to the willingness of students to engage with the carefully planned activities.

Before joining the class, Rachel spends a few hours with new students, getting to know them, assessing their needs and forming a bond. Although there may be apprehension joining the group, this preparation time allows for smoother integration, as the child already feels some level of comfort with the teacher and trust may already have begun to develop.

​

A rapport with the students builds quickly and I aim to provide any one-to-one assistance as needed throughout lessons to help the flow of the subject matter from Rachel be efficiently received by all. We constantly tune in to the class ‘feel’ and share feedback regularly.

​

          Sometimes, the choice to home school has been made due to previous traumatic school experiences. It has been a joy for me, as an aide, to witness students beginning to relax within the group, knowing that they are being safely held and without fear of criticism or judgement. Rachel creates and maintains a relaxed, inclusive and kind atmosphere where all children have a chance to express themselves. Due to the absence of competition and comparisons, self-worth and individualism can flourish. Also, it is easier to foster peer support in a micro-class with positive modelling and any derogatory comments can be monitored. The foundation for self-confidence needs to be provided for within an enjoyable and productive learning experience.

​

From the very first contact, my experience of communicating with Rachel has been a great pleasure in my life. I am the aide for the Monday teens group for Math and English. I am constantly inspired by her way, the combination of kindness, adaptability, use of positive language and higher intelligence. Rachel is highly skilled on so many levels and whilst fully professional, maintains a relaxed, friendly and approachable manner throughout. Her acceptance of, and ability to clearly see others has made our work together authentic. Rachel’s presence is calm, measured and fun!

​

Overall, it is so enjoyable to be a part of a schooling group where all students are seen, heard and great efforts of understanding are bridged. Tolerance, kindness and humour are ever-present and I always leave work feeling grateful and inspired from witnessing the positively thriving ‘living’ classroom.