I have been fortunate enough to receive my 10 year certification as HALT. It's been a great time working with some remarkable schools in the ACT and learning from and with some truly talented educators. It's from the support of those around us,within our schools, in our learning communities, that we can continue to do so much as HALTs to lead education in the ACT.
Here's a few things I have discovered (and have affirmed) in the past decade that can continue to drive us as a HALT community in the ACT:
1. Embrace Growth:
Over the past 10 years, HALTs in the ACT have shown a reliable commitment to continuous improvement. We have built a Sharespace with opportunities to develop other teachers; ACT HALTs present at the HALT summit every year, and we have built platforms to support others in certification and career development. I'd urge all members to embrace the growth you've experienced, both personally and professionally, and recognise the value of your ongoing dedication to refining your practice.
2. Celebrate Achievements:
Take a moment to celebrate your achievements and milestones. Whether it's your certification as a HALT, the professional learning communities you are working with in your school or the successes you've seen in your students' learning, each accomplishment is a testament to your hard work and dedication.
3. Share Your Wisdom:
As a expert educator, you have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with others. Take the opportunity to mentor and support colleagues who may be earlier in their teaching careers, helping to cultivate a community of learning and growth. Start small and explore what you can do. Be conscious of how you can develop others. Connect at your school and watch the growth.
4. Stay Curious:
The field of education is constantly evolving, and there's always more to learn. Stay curious and open-minded, exploring new ideas, pedagogies, and technologies that can enhance your teaching practice and benefit your students. Remember remote learning? Remember how you were able to bring your passions and your skills to make things work even though we didn't have a rulebook? Anyone who says there's only one way to teach clearly has never spent a day in the classroom. It is through our curiosity and our drive to innovate and adapt that we can build better learning experiences and commit to the progress of our students and of those around us.
5. Remember Your Impact:
It's not just me who says that - many will remember the exhortations at Summits in the past 10 years from AITSL chair John Hattie. Never underestimate the impact you have on your students' lives. Your passion, dedication, and belief in their potential can inspire them to achieve great things both inside and outside the classroom.
As you continue your journey as a HALT, remember to take pride in the difference you're making in the lives of your students and the broader educational community. Your dedication to excellence is truly commendable, and I wish you continued success in the years to come.
(Below) Lara Callaghan from ACU on her first practicum placement – has the privilege to shadow John in his Year 7 class.
