Before I convince you that teachers require the widest range of skills of any profession, I want to clarify some things first.
I am not saying it’s the most difficult, dangerous, back breaking, or demanding job in the world (though at times it can feel like all those things). What I am proposing is a teaching day has so much variety, that the talents you need to succeed go well beyond what you would see in a position description.
Here is a list of skills that I require in any given year as a teacher. Next to them is listed the other professions that these abilities are drawn from.
Update student page on Learning Management System | Web Designer |
Book Excursion | Event Planner |
Create PowerPoint | ICT Presentation Designer |
Present PowerPoint to Class | Marketing Executive |
Counsel an upset student | Counsellor/Social Worker |
Photocopy handouts | Administration assistant |
Fix Photocopier after it jams | Photocopier Technician |
Long Jump Marshal at School Athletics | Athletics Official |
Update Schools Anti-Bullying Policy | Policy Writer |
Break up fight in yard | Police Officer |
MC School Assembly | Professional MC |
Organise and serve dinner for students staying back for debating final | Caterer |
Give feedback to Uniform Committee on new school beanie | Fashion Designer |
Deal with injured student | First Aid Officer |
Design a poster to promote lunchtime concert | Graphic Designer |
PA Announcements | Radio Host |
Managing the faculty budget | Accountant |
Decorating and setting up classrooms | Interior Decorator |
Planning lessons for new topics | Academic Researchers |
Directing students to exit assembly | Security guards |
Dealing with hostile parents | Mediator |
Sanitising student hands/enforce social distancing/mask wearing | COVID safe marshals |
Chairing meetings | CEO/Board Chair |
Inspiring student fundraising | Philanthropist |
Managing staffing issues | HR |
Organising Interstate/Oversees Trip | Travel Agent |
Facilitating Interstate/Oversees Trip | Tour Guide |
Fix students computers | ICT Technician |
Write school reports | Quality Assurance Monitor |
Officiate lunchtime sports game | Umpire/Referee |
Did I miss any?
Do you agree?