Teacher Tuesday: Mrs Andrea Henry
Following a little break, Teacher Tuesday is back. Mrs Henry has been at KIS for 18 years, teaching in the Early Years Department in Foundation 1. Find out more about Mrs Henry in this week’s Teacher Tuesday:
How many years have you been in teaching and where have you taught?
I have been teaching young children for over 20 years in both Germany and in Malaysia.
How would you describe the KIS community?
I find the KIS community warm and welcoming. It is a lovely thing to be part of. I know that I can always rely on the support of colleagues and parents and this helps me to be the best teacher I can be.
What do you find most rewarding about being a teacher?
When you work with young children, every day is filled with wonder as they learn new things and explore the world around them. It is wonderful to witness these โwowโ moments and it makes you realise how lucky you are to be a teacher.
What is your favourite classroom resource and why?
This is a difficult question as many resources play a daily role in a childโs learning. I love to see children sharing and discussing different books, so if I have to choose, I will choose the class book corner.
What are the benefits to students in learning through play at this age?
Play based learning has so many benefits it is difficult to list them all. It encourages independence, communication, imagination, collaborative learning and thinking skills โ preparing them for life.
Youโve been at KIS for 18 years, what is your favourite memory of your time here?
I have many, but one of my very favourites is the Reception and Foundation One children taking part in the swimming gala last academic year. The children had a wonderful time and were very proud to be in the โbig poolโ taking part in events. It was an amazing day for them and they were delighted with their accomplishments and gold medals!
As a teacher of our youngest students, what advice do you have for parents whose children are just starting school?
All children are individuals and some take longer to settle into school routines than others. Having some separation anxiety is expected and normal, but it can be upsetting for both children and parents. Try to help your child build a positive attitude towards school by talking about their day and arranging โplay datesโ with their school friends. If you have any worries or concerns please talk to your childโs teacher as they will be happy to reassure you that your child is safe and happy throughout the school day.
Where in the world would you like to visit?
I find that every country has its own charm and so I have enjoyed each visit abroad for different reasons. I donโt have a country that I particularly want to visit above others, but would like to fit as many countries as I can into my life travel plans so that I benefit from the beauty of as many places as possible.
If you could have dinner with someone famous who would it be and why?
I would love to meet and have dinner with David Attenborough as I have a special interest in all kinds of animals.
What do you enjoy doing in KK when youโre not working?
I really enjoy my Yoga sessions because I find them so relaxing after a busy day.