Glimmers - a round up
Almost a year on.
Thoughts and musings
I have always loved to write. From being a young child, I could often be found writing stories, poems and recounts. I found writing a release and a truly enjoyable hobby. I lost the practice of this in adulthood. Feeling an urge but not always the outlet.
I have always loved education. I knew I wanted to be a teacher from the moment I started school myself. Nurtured all the more by the 8-year age gap with my younger sister, who had to endure “lessons” in our front room, sat amongst the rows of teddies and dolls.
Merging the two together has been a profound experience. Exceptionally tentative at first, with a huge helping of imposter syndrome. Now, a natural part of my week, a carving out of time which I look forward to. What started as a conversation with about whether I had ever thought about writing a blog, became my ‘glimmers’. The intention of which is to share thoughts, musings, ideas and practical suggestions which I hope may ignite a spark of inspiration or reflection for educators.
I have always maintained that teaching is the most rewarding profession to devote a life to. Yet, it can also present its challenges. Workload, policy changes, inspection pressure, administrative tasks. They are part and parcel of the role but not the reason why many educators entered the profession. These are not the joyous moments of the day. Yet, those moments are there. Sometimes there may need to be a little refocus, a change in intention. Not easy. But possible. These are the glimmers.
Ideas and practical suggestions
So, what has almost a year writing ‘Glimmers in Education’ taught me about my own educational philosophy and purpose, as well as the interests of other colleagues and writers? Below are two takeaways from my weekly shedding of light. Think of these as reflections and ponderings. As always, further conversation is welcomed (and encouraged) in the comments.
The Substack network is a special place. A real community. A bonus prize in the writing process. Having been an avid reader of Mary Myatt’s ‘Curriculum 101’, I was then invited into the wonderful world of writers sharing their thoughts, expertise and experiences on an incredible range of educational topics. The recommendations section is always my go-to when discovering my next read, or look out for shout-outs on the main feed.
Analysing data does not come naturally to me. It is a learnt skill, as I understand its importance. Therefore, when writing, I definitely don’t take advantage of Substack’s analytical breakdowns. I pondered (out loud) very early on in my journey, about whether I should be making my posts more intentionally responsive to current educational talking points. My ‘glimmers’ have often been borne out of my experiences in schools that week, a conversation, a flashback. I like the organic nature of this.
However, ahead of celebrating a year of posts, I thought it might be interesting to dive into the figures. So, here are my key takeaways from 45 posts, across 4 seasons and 1 academic year!
1. The problems which are not always easy to solve
There are so many variables in education. Primarily, we work with human beings. The children that we have the privilege to teach. The adults, who take on so many different roles within a school setting. Nothing will ever fit into a perfect box. As teachers, we leave university equipped with an abstract toolkit which will only ever make true sense after lived experience. Reflection. Adaptation. Conversation.
I am perhaps not surprised to therefore find that my most viewed posts centred around relationship building, the nurturing of ethos and the human-element of the profession. I pride myself on being an empathetic colleague, an emotionally intelligent leader and a lifelong learner. The ‘glimmers’ explored and offered in these posts are formed by own lived experience, the stories of other colleagues and the amazing network of charities, organisations and individuals who conduct educational research and enrich our thought-processes in an ever-changing world.
You may want to re-visit or discover my most-read ‘glimmers’:
2. Perspectives and practical suggestions related to the teaching of English resonate
My passion, and subsequent career choices, have always linked to English. From my A-level choice, to my chosen degree and my motivation to lead such a valuable subject and disciplinary across the 3 countries I have taught. Therefore, moving into independent educational consultancy this year, specialising in primary English really has been a dream come true.
There has been a clear engagement with my posts which centre around the teaching of English. It is not a formulaic subject. Curriculum objectives and guidance are only part of the consideration that should be undertaken when curating joyful English experiences. As are assessments. Yet, understandably, these can often dictate choices. I have been keen to share examples of English approaches and practice which seek to value autonomy (for both teachers and pupils), increase intrinsic motivation and draw upon high-quality texts. With pleasure and enjoyment at the heart. Those glimmering moments.
I have written several posts focusing on English experiences this year, you may want to read or return to:
As a subscriber, or perhaps a one-off reader, of my ‘glimmers’ I would like to thank you for your support. I began this writing journey as a personal learning and growth experience. I now write for engaged readers. This is truly special.
I am a firm believer in the importance of conversation and community. All thoughts and feedback are welcome in the comments. If you would ever like to get in touch with me directly, you can do so at:
hello@lauraspargo.com
You may also be interested in taking a look at my website:
Next week, I will be taking my first break from my weekly glimmers, practising what I share about having an intentional slow down and a rest. I look forward to continuing to shed light in a fortnight’s time.
I love that you have your own engaging audio version! Thank you Laura 🫶🏼
Great summary Laura, here's to another year!