Today our class had its first Values workshop. We were split into groups numbered 1 to 4 and duly followed Carrie’s instructions to make something to welcome a new student to the University of Dundee.  At first I was oblivious to the purpose of this activity, however it soon became apparent that the groups had been given different quantities of resources in a descending order from group one having a plentiful supply of materials to group four having virtually nothing. The lesson, I realised, was that of inequality in society.  As a society, we accept inequalities exist, but as future teachers it is our obligation to challenge them and strive for full inclusion of all children and families in school.

I am aware that some children struggle through life without even their basic needs being met and in fact often come to school with an empty stomach.  Under such harsh circumstances these children may not be able to learn and engage in school life. They may seem distracted, disruptive or disobedient when in fact they lack the energy to commit to their environment and the people in it. I believe we must try to empathise with children and help make a positive impact in their lives. I once knew a teacher, who worked in a deprived area, telling me she kept a box of cereal bars in class for those children who had come to school hungry. She would instruct children who had ‘forgotten’ to have breakfast that day to help themselves from the box. Surprisingly she said no child ever abused her generosity and she could proceed with the days  teaching knowing no starving child sat in her class. This example of empathy and care is an inspiration to us all.

In the class today I was fortunate to be in group two and enjoyed having an abundance of materials in which to create an item and meet the demands of the task. Group three sitting next to us however were not so lucky and needed a pen to complete the task. My group willing gave them a pen. I learned that group one were unwilling to share their bountiful supply of resources with group four which although sad was a fact of life – not everyone is generous and thoughtful. As teachers we have a unique position to help foster good morals in children; one such way is to help them to share and empathise with others which is after all an evolutionary act of social survival. It is also important to understand the hardships some families face and to work with them in a non-judgemental way to help their children reach their full potential and hopefully break free from deprivation.