Lesson 7: Problem-Solving When you deal with energetic teens every day, you learn to problem-solve quickly. Teaching is an exercise in constant problem-solving. From managing classroom dynamics to addressing individual learning challenges, every day presents new obstacles. These experiences have…
Lesson 6: The Power of Mentorship Teaching isn’t just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing young minds to reach their full potential. I’ve found that there is no better way to nurture people than through mentorship. Through the power of…
Lesson 5: Being Resourceful When I joined teaching, I was ready to change the world – or so I thought. My resolve was deflated soon after when I realised that the school was not sufficiently stocked with books and teaching materials. Teaching…
Lesson 4: Patience and Perseverance One of the most impactful poems I’ve ever read remains attributed to an anonymous author. It beautifully captures the essence of patience and perseverance: He worked by day And toiled by night. He gave up…
Lesson 3: Effective Communication The first time I entered the classroom was marked by a misguided attempt to impress students with my extensive vocabulary. Armed with a freshly minted university degree— from the University of Zambia at that— I mistakenly…
Lesson 2: Adaptability My teaching career commenced at Roan Antelope Secondary School in Luanshya, Copperbelt, in September 2012. I was immediately assigned a very challenging grade 11 class. Initially, I adopted a traditional, authoritative approach, mirroring the teaching styles I…
I’ve been reflecting on the many life lessons I’ve learnt as a teacher of English. For years, my classrooms haven’t just been filled with eager teenagers willing to learn; they’ve been a breeding ground for valuable business and life lessons.…