I have many convictions that help to shape my life. I have convictions about looking after my health, building a strong marriage and convictions about investing time and energy into my family and friends. The word ‘conviction’ is quite a traditional word that for some contains connotations of being restrictive. I see convictions as quite the opposite I see them as being deep principles that you can build your life around. I see them as anchors that give stability, even in the storms of life.
When I was seven we lived in quiet a remote village in the Peak District, in England. it’s a beautiful area, covered in lush green paddocks but far from the water. When my parents told me that we were going on holiday on a boat I was thrilled! On our first night on the boat, a small rickety old thing, it was my father’s responsibility to anchor down for the night and secure our spot on the river. It was a calm night and there was no wind. After we had anchored down our family went to bed early. In the middle of the night, there was a terrifying crash. My father jumped up out of bed to investigate. We had drifted about three kilometers down stream and smashed into a wharf. We had done incredible damage to the boat and the neighbouring wharf all because we had not anchored down properly for the night.
Anchors are interesting things; they are not merely metal objects that moor a boat to the bottom of the river bed or the ocean. They provide stability or confidence in otherwise uncertain times. As teachers we have to have an unwavering believe, a conviction in fact, that we are here to make a difference. Our convictions will anchor us during challenging times.
My convictions about teaching are:
For me:
- I have a deep conviction that great teaching does make a difference
- I have a deep conviction that I was born to teach.
- I have a deep conviction that everyday I am closing the gap, little by little of educational disadvantage.
- I have a deep conviction that all children deserve access to a world-class education system.
What are some of your convictions about education? What are your anchors?
Please leave your thoughts here.