Stef: a born maths teacher
A maths teacher I wish I could have had!
Interview with Lotte Weedage by Diana Dalenoord
During secondary school, Stef already knew he wanted to become a teacher. After visiting the open days of the PABO he found out that the programme did not suit him, so he looked further into his options. In the end, he opted for the Bachelor's programme in Applied Mathematics because he also had a soft spot for mathematics and, after all, it is the basis for almost everything you encounter in society. The UT also offered the possibility of becoming a maths teacher, so he didn't have to give up his dream of becoming a teacher.
Back on track to become a teacher
In my bachelor’s programme, I chose the minor 'Leren Lesgeven' which allowed me to experience what it is like to be in front of a classroom and gave me the chance to explain the beauty of mathematics. I received a diploma to teach the lower grades of secondary school. I recommend this minor to anyone who wants to know what it is like to be a teacher.
During my Science Education and Communication Master’s, I learned a lot about teaching methodology and education. Because my parents also worked in education, some things felt very logical to me. I researched what worked best for me and what tips and tricks I would take on to become a great teacher. What I liked most about this training was interacting with the students and seeing how well they responded to me during my classes. Getting to know in-depth mathematics was more difficult than learning the teaching methods, studying education science and doing internships at school. Actually, I would have liked the period of work placement to be longer in order to get more practical experience.
No more sorting out on paper
During my graduation assignment, I worked on a new activity programme. Students could sign up for extra-curricular activities, and scheduling was still done with pen and paper. I started programming to develop a digital activity for secondary schools. Teachers shared the activities in the system and students could indicate their preferences. No more juggling on paper! The programme was used with great pleasure - and pride - by my mum 😊
Beyond studying
My student life was great. Besides being a student, I was a board member of WSG Abacus as an education commissioner. I maintained contact with the faculty and learned a lot about the design and development of education. My work on the board changed my personality, as I found myself outside my comfort zone. From a somewhat shy person, I became someone who did not shy away from trying something new, I no longer found it difficult to take the floor during meetings or to give my opinion, and it certainly made it easier to speak in front of groups. I was also a jury member (and questioner) of the Twentse Wiskunde Estafette for a number of years. Now, as a maths teacher, I try to participate every year with all our 4th and 5th maths D VWO classes - and to win, of course! Also, I was an editorial board member of Ideaal! A lot of nice memories for sure! 😉
A life as a maths teacher - but what does that actually mean?
I work at the Stedelijk Kottenpark, a school that focuses on HAVO and VWO. During my studies, I learned how to teach and what to pay attention to in class. Because of my experience, I know that you have to stay true to yourself and have a passion for the profession. In addition to ensuring a good transfer of knowledge, you need a good atmosphere in the classroom. Being a teacher is more than just teaching, you also need a great deal of people skills to ensure everything runs smoothly. I really like being a teacher!
I appreciate that the school management gives me space to test things out. For instance, I have developed a concept for 3 HAVO in which pupils learn at their own pace. They first watch the explanation of a mathematical subject via a video, and in class, I try to help or guide each student individually. This way, there is time to review and give feedback on the students' work. Not every class can learn at their own pace, so it has to fit the class to be successful.
More than a math teacher
I am part of a team of teachers from various disciplines that develops the 'Science, Design & Technology’ trajectory, where the students get more than the standard lessons. Students work in modules of 10 weeks on a special theme such as programming combined with health care, where students use gamification to clarify the limitations of living with a physical limitation. This way they experience how their education is applied in society.
It's also great fun to be an internship supervisor for students who want to go into education just as much as I did. These can be students doing an internship for a minor or HBO students - they teach the lower grades of secondary school - or Master’s students who teach the classes, from 4th to 6th grade in secondary school. As a supervisor, you can stimulate your trainees to think out of the box and visualise how they would like to organise the lesson. Then it’s time to let them try it out. This way, I also learn from it!
,In short, I highly recommend teaching at a secondary school. You have to dare to stand in front of groups, always ask yourself how to keep it fun, love people and have a natural click with the target group. And of course, you must have enthusiasm and love for the profession. It’s a dream job!