Heather Corringham

My teaching philosophy was shaped early on by observing my ADHD brother’s difficult journey through school, where he was often mistreated by teachers. Meanwhile, my own learning challenges went unnoticed and undiagnosed. These experiences taught me that knowing teaching jargon doesn’t equate to effective teaching. 

In high school, two teachers stood out for their compassionate and inclusive approach, influencing my both my learning journey and teaching philosophy. 

I believe in fostering relationships with students through compassion, firm boundaries, and understanding.

My background gives me a unique perspective on the challenges learners face in language acquisition, classroom management, and the importance of diverse teaching methods. I emphasize that every student needs guidance, and what may seem like misbehavior often reflects unmet needs rather than deliberate defiance. Each child is an individual, requiring a tailored approach aimed at developing their strengths and weaknesses to cultivate well-rounded individuals capable of effective collaboration.

I create a safe environment where emotions are understood and respected, integrating opportunities for peer support and presentations in every lesson.

Ultimately, I see my role not just as an educator but as a mentor nurturing children to become productive and happy members of society. Even amidst a demanding curriculum, I prioritize bringing joy into their learning experiences, recognizing that events in their daily lives influence who they are and how the see their time in the classroom.