I feel that the five most important virtues of teaching are:

• Fairness
• Empathy
• Patience
• Kindness
• Respect

Fairness

Fairness is extremely important in a primary school. I feel that no pupils should be singled out and certain ones given advantages, so they should not be treated any differently

Empathy

Empathy is also important. As a teacher you should get on the same level as the pupils and help them understand the issue they’re having, no matter how big or small.

Patience

As a teacher, I understand that patience is a huge attribute to have. You have to understand that every pupil is different, so each will take longer to grasp certain things than others. But, having this patience will allow the ‘eureka’ moment to feel incredible when the pupil grasps what they are doing.

Kindness

Teachers must be kind in order for them to be approachable for the pupils. Children should not feel anxious when coming to me when they need help with something, so kindness is very important.

Respect

Pupils should have respect for me, but I should also respect them. I should also have respect for anyone who is in my classroom: from the cleaner to the head teacher. Anyone who is in my classroom are there to help me, so I will give them all my respect.