Which student would benefit from shadowing you?
In every classroom there are individuals who are really struggling with behaviour. Why not try the ‘Walking in the Teacher’s Shoes’ method to help break down barriers.
Walking in the Teacher’s shoes
- Hold a formal meeting with the student where you discuss what they think a teacher’s job entails and what makes a good teacher.
- Explain that you’d like the student to develop a better understanding of what daily life is like for a teacher and so they will shadow a teacher throughout the day, supporting them when necessary.
- Throughout the day, the teacher should take time to explain to the student the types of activities they are doing.
- After the shadowing day, follow up with a second formal meeting to review what the student experienced through the day. What were they surprised by? Was there anything they want to ask about? How has their view of teachers or teaching changed?
Why is it a good strategy?
Students who feel detached from teachers may lack empathy for them, not really understanding their role or motives. Showing a student what a teacher really does and why will help to break down barriers between ‘them’ and ‘us’.
Tip
This method should be reserved for those pupils who are really struggling with school behaviour. Discuss this idea with the SLT and parents before embarking on this method. Although it can work, it must be suitable for the pupil, the parents and the setting too.
