World Teachers’ Day 2024: How to Honour Educators and Support Their Well-being

Today is World Teachers’ Day, a moment to reflect on the immense contributions educators make in shaping the minds and hearts of future generations. Across the globe, teachers dedicate their time, energy and passion to nurturing young learners, often going above and beyond what is required of them. This special day is also an opportunity to recognise the importance of teacher well-being and mental health, especially in the challenging landscape of modern education.

At Brisbane Independent School (BIS), teacher well-being is a key priority. Unlike the standard practices in many schools, BIS teachers receive more non-contact time to plan, reflect, and collaborate. This ensures that they can deliver high-quality, thoughtful lessons while balancing the pressures of the classroom. It’s a proactive approach that values their mental health by reducing stress and giving them the space to focus on both their professional responsibilities and personal needs.

In addition to this extra planning time, BIS teachers benefit from a unique initiative: a Healthy Living Day, each term. This day allows teachers to attend to personal appointments—such as medical check-ups or wellness activities—that can only take place during work hours, without the need to access their personal leave. By giving teachers this time without penalty, BIS demonstrates a genuine commitment to their holistic well-being, acknowledging that a healthy, well-supported teacher is essential for the success and happiness of students.

How Parents, Families, and Students Can Support Teachers

Teachers are often on the front lines, managing diverse student needs while balancing the demands of an ever-evolving curriculum. As parents, families and students, there are many meaningful ways to show support and appreciation for the hard work that teachers do. Simple gestures can go a long way, such as sending a note of thanks, offering to assist with classroom activities or even just checking in with a teacher to see how they’re doing.

For families, understanding the importance of teacher wellbeing is key. Encouraging open communication and respecting teachers’ professional boundaries can create a positive partnership between home and school. Showing appreciation through student-led initiatives, such as handmade gifts or cards, provides teachers with a boost that makes them feel seen and valued.

This week at BIS, the Year 6 Seniors led a heartwarming initiative to celebrate World Teachers’ Day, demonstrating the school’s strong sense of community and leadership development. These Senior students, who achieve their leadership status by rite of passage rather than by a popularity vote or teacher selection, are all part of a collective journey that focuses on mentorship, responsibility and growth. This week, they took the lead in organising a special handmade gift and thank you cards for all eight of our classroom, supply and support teachers.

Alongside the cards, they also presented macramé plant hangers, handmade by a mix of Year 5 and Senior students during their mindfulness sessions. The hangers featured recycled bottles and jars, filled with plant cuttings from around the school—a beautiful, eco-friendly gesture that symbolised the nurturing nature of teachers.

As we celebrate World Teachers’ Day, let us remember the importance of supporting the educators who dedicate themselves to fostering the growth and development of young minds. Whether through systemic changes that promote teacher well-being or small acts of gratitude, every bit of support helps to create a healthier, happier education community. Let’s continue to champion the incredible work our teachers do each day.

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