The Forgotten Heroes       

Words Lara Akinjobi

The world of education has experienced many turbulences during the lockdown which has resulted in many educators feeling just as unsettled as their students. Several questions have arisen as a result of the changes. Am I doing enough? How do I increase engagement? Why am I so bored? What are live lessons? What am I doing? Maths Specialist Lara Akinjobi unfolds the truth of why educators are truly heroes and how their well-being is essential during these unprecedented times.

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The majority of schools are still open to vulnerable pupils and the children of key workers. The students have constant access to us as teachers and therefore we are in constant communication with the household of our students. We are providing pupils with quality education online. Have you ever had a message at 21:30pm asking for help?

I emphatically want to share with you all that as educators we are all in the same boat. Let’s take a moment to think of how we would reassure a student. Treat yourself with the same love and kindness. As an educator, there is always an endless to-do list; calling guardians, uploading work, preparing for live lessons, marking and let us not forget squeezing in lunch. There is a need to be on top of it all and have perfect control of everything.

It is essential that educators take a break. Up to 13% of a child’s waking hours are spent in education and thus our well-being is imperative. How are you coping? No really, how are you? Are you nourishing your mental health as you are your physical body? We should endeavour to carve out some time for ourselves daily. 

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These are the five pillars of well-being all educators should focus on:

1. Connect with people and invest in developing connections with your support system.  

2. Be active because we have access to unlimited exercise! Let’s get the adrenaline and cortisol pumping in our system to elevate our mood and naturally de-stress our body.

3. Take notice of the beauty in this ever changing world and reflect on that which truly matters to you. 

4. Keep learning, be it a new skill or rekindling an old interest. The Open University currently has a catalogue of free courses, why not set a challenge and enjoy the process to success?

5. Give to the community and those around you. Let us look outward to those around which is intrinsically rewarding. Can I smile more? Can I check up on someone? Can I buy a bagel for my neighbour? This will support us in creating deeper connections and building a support system.

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Remember you are the light of education. Your willingness to teach day in and day out in the midst of chaos are uplifting many households. Your support to pupils and families does not go unnoticed. You are a superhero!

Lara Akinjobi - Maths Specialist