Flora Tan
Teacher, British Council Native Speakers Programme and English Camp
How have you been influenced by the British Council?
I was involved with the Native Speakers Programme with the British Council. At the time, I was also the Head of Panel for English in my school. We did one programme together with the British Council under the English Panel, which was an English camp. During the week, we conducted activities that catered to help students in mastering constructs.
How has the British Council made positive changes in your life?
Personally, I feel motivated when my mentor is around to share her stories and experiences in fields that I lack. When I first partnered with the British Council, I was just a new teacher so I valued listening to anyone who had been in the education line longer than me.
Also, when I feel frustrated with some issues related to classroom situations, I could share them with my mentor and I didn't feel like I was alone in facing the challenges.
I strive to always do my best and try out new ways, which were always shared by my mentor. I like to see what works and what doesn't and I know mentors from the British Council have learnt various strategies which may work according to various classroom conditions.
What advice would you give to other teachers?
I think with the British Council around, it is good for other teachers to fasten their seatbelts and perhaps learn to motivate themselves internally to keep on trying no matter the circumstances. Often times from what I've observed, teachers tend to buckle up only when mentors are coming to schools to conduct activities or do classroom observations. If mentors continue working with teachers and help wherever they can, I think teachers might be more productive.
For me, I really would like to continue working with the British Council because I know the experiences I gain will not only benefit me, but also anyone I'm teaching.