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As a secondary school art teacher, my goal is to create a welcoming and safe space where all students feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring their creativity. I believe that the art classroom should be a sanctuary where students can momentarily set aside the stresses of their daily lives and immerse themselves in making and experimenting. Growing up, the art room was a place I valued grately and encouraged me to explore my potential. My own art teacher’s dedication to each student deeply inspired me, and I carry that same ethos into my teaching practice. Drawing from John Dewey’s belief that education should be an enriching, experiential process, I want to create an environment where students are actively engaged in meaningful, hands-on learning. Art connects both self-expression and problem-solving, making it the perfect medium to nurture such growth.

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In my classroom, I put alot of emphasis on exploration and experimentation, encouraging students to engage with a wide variety of materials, techniques, and ideas. I put alot of focus on connecting my students work with the world around them, by discussing concepts that are relevant and link to  understanding cultural and historical content. For me, teaching art is not just about developing technical skills but also about generating a mindset of curiosity and openness. Inspired by the humanist philosophy of Paulo Freire, I want to make the learning process collaborative. My students and I learn from one another, building a vibrant classroom community where ideas are shared freely, and every voice is respected. I ensure to have group and peer work when I can in my classroom because I feel that it is one of the key aspects to developing the students skills. Collaboration encourages critical thinking, problem solving, and an appreciation of diverse perspectives, which are essential skills for both artists and learners.

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At the heart of my teaching is a deep understanding of the challenges young people face today. Adolescence is a pivotal time, filled with pressure from multiple different sources. I recognise the importance of mental wellbeing and aim to make the art room a calming, expressive space. I have a curriculum research project dedicated to this topic where students take part in a project to redesign their school and reimagine it as an oasis. By offering opportunities for mindful creativity, I help students develop tools for self-expression and self-regulation. Whether it’s through sketching, painting, or sculpting, I want my students to leave each class feeling more grounded, inspired, and connected. Ultimately, my goal is not only to impart artistic skills but to help students discover their voice and build confidence. Just as my art teacher once inspired me to see my potential, I hope to empower my students to embrace their individuality and carry with them a lifelong appreciation for creativity, connection, and self-discovery.

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