PHILOSOPHY
My Philosophy
Schoolwide Teaching Philosophy
At the heart of our educational community lies a commitment to nurturing a challenging and supportive learning environment. My philosophy emphasizes research-based practices, personal connections, and a holistic, student-centered approach to teaching that engages, inspires, and empowers all students.
Research-Based Excellence:
I ground my teaching methods in the latest educational research to foster effective learning. By implementing evidence-based strategies such as differentiated instruction, formative assessments, and active learning techniques, I aim to meet the diverse needs of our students. This commitment to academic excellence ensures that each student is challenged and supported, paving the way for them to reach their fullest potential.
Warm and Inclusive Environment:
Creating a classroom atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity is paramount. I prioritize building meaningful relationships with students and celebrating each student’s unique background and perspectives. Through an inclusive and respectful environment, students feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and engage deeply in their learning.
Holistic Approach:
I embrace a holistic approach to education, understanding that students thrive when they are nurtured intellectually, emotionally, and socially. My methodology is designed to integrate cross-disciplinary themes that connect learning to real-world contexts. This approach enhances academic learning and promotes emotional intelligence and social responsibility.
Relevant and Engaging Learning:
Relevance is key to student engagement and motivation. Connecting learning experiences to real-life situations and contemporary issues makes education meaningful and exciting. Whether through project-based learning, community involvement, or the exploration of global challenges, I provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge creatively and critically.
Personal and Inspiring Engagement:
I am passionate about igniting a love for learning in every student. By sharing my enthusiasm, I aim to inspire students to explore new ideas and develop a lifelong passion for learning. Incorporating creative projects and experiential learning opportunities allows students to express their ideas and insights, fostering a school culture of innovation and inspiration.
Empowerment and Student-Centered Learning:
I foster a student-centered learning environment that empowers students to participate actively in their education. By encouraging student choice and voice, I support students in becoming self-directed, lifelong learners. This empowerment cultivates a sense of ownership and fosters the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
In conclusion, my schoolwide teaching philosophy is dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience that nurtures each student’s mind and heart. Through a blend of research-based practice, personal engagement, and holistic development, I prepare our students to be thoughtful, capable, and compassionate individuals ready to impact the world positively.
AI in schools - yes or no?
It's the biggest question in education today. Do we ignore it, confront it, reject it, embrace it, teach with it, or ban it?
Read my opinion here.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Different international institutions have emphasized the relevance of education to developing citizens who contribute to achieving the SDGs for 2030. However, a review focused on physical education (PE) has yet to be performed. I believe there are several SD Goals that can be addressed in Physical Education. What I have written here is an attempt to highlight the SDGs I can incorporate into my classes, and where they might sit. Please click Read More if you are interested in my ideas.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSIVITY
My strong belief in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion stems from the conviction that they are not just ethical imperatives but also essential for building more innovative, prosperous, and equitable societies and organizations. Embracing diversity is a path toward a better future for everyone, and it is a cause worth championing. It is also very personal. My eldest son, Conor, was adopted by us as a 3 week old baby whilst we were living in Seoul. Some of the ignorant, vile, racial attacks he has endured tear my heart apart. 'Go back where you came from' is so racist it makes me livid. If you want to read more, please click the button.
RECENT EXPERIENCE
Achieve Xiamen International School Fujian China
2023-2024
PYP PE Teacher and Coach (PS-Grade 3), EAL K Grade 1 Grade 2
Concordia International School Shanghai
2018 - 2023
Early Childhood Specialist Music and Movement Teacher
(Pre-school to Kindergarten)
Concordia International School Shanghai
2017 - 2018
Elementary PE Teacher 2017-2018 PS-Grade 4)
“The core of education is the relationship between the teacher and the student, and the extent to which that relationship nurtures the longing of the child to matter in the world, and the longing of the teacher to nurture and fulfil that desire.”
–Timothy Shriver and Jennifer Buffet
ABOUT SUE
When I meet people, I like to ask questions. The kind of questions I like to ask helps me understand their paradigm; what they believe about the world. So, if I were you, and I was asking myself a bunch of questions, I’d ask things like; do you have a partner? Where did you meet? Where did you get married? Do you have children? Where are you from? What’s your favourite holiday ever, and why? What do you do for a job? Do you like it? What hobbies do you enjoy? Do you like sport? Which ones and why? If you had the choice, who would you invite to dinner if everyone who is now passed was actually still alive? So, I’m going to start my bio there.
TESTIMONIALS
Click here to go to my Testimonial page
A Scott, International School Moshi
"Sue is an excellent teacher. Head of Department and Director of the Sports Programme. She has taught PE and Life Skills at the school."
F Grisham, Seoul International School
"Ms Russell is an extremely professional woman, setting very high standards of conduct for herself and her students."
T Oughton, Principal, Scotch College
"Sue immediately made a positive impact on the school, and especially amongst our group of international students."
QUICK ID
Phone
+61 475397847
Website
Adelaide
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