I had the privilege of attending my certification practicum in a grade 7 classroom at Beattie Elementary School in Kamloops, BC over the course of 10 weeks. In September, I was able to start the year with the grade 7 class for the first 3 weeks which allowed me to introduce myself, meet and get to know the students, and practice my teaching. In January, I started my 10 week certification practicum by teaching 2 subjects throughout the week. Each week, the teaching load progressed and by week 5 I was teaching full time in the classroom.

I am really grateful for the practicum experience I had and feel very lucky to have gotten to know the 28 students in my class along with my wonderful Teacher Mentor. My TM gave constructive and critical feedback in a very positive way which allowed me to be successful in many ways in the classroom. Her constant encouragement and support allowed me to try a variety of teaching techniques and methods to create a diverse learning environment. Students were able to share their learning in classroom discussions, practice pages, partner work, group work, one on one conversation and more.

This experience allowed me to grow immensely in many different ways. My own personal confidence has grown with managing the classroom, connecting with students, and teaching lessons. I immersed myself within the school and came prepared everyday to teach and learn with the students. I feel as though my strength would be connecting with students as I took the time each day to check in with them. I look forward to connecting with future students and expanding my teaching abilities.

I successfully completed my practicum with the guidance from both my TM and Faculty Mentor. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the staff and students at Beattie Elementary. This was the first practicum where I really felt like I was part of the school as everyone was so friendly and welcoming. I look forward to working and collaborating with other teachers in the future to allow the students to have a diverse learning experience.