Tell me what you want from a teacher

[combinationpadlock]

I read a lot about recommendations for schools, on MN, or recommendations to avoid schools, but it is very rarely specific.

I am interested to hear what it is that parents want from secondary teachers. What makes a "good teacher" for you, and what would make you recommend a school?

Thank you

A teacher who can teach.
. Get over the required information in an understandable way in as engaging manner as suitable.
. Classroom management
. Constructive feedback
. Adjustments for SEN
. Meaningful homework that is clear and straightforward

Schools are more than teachers though.
Less good schools may have many good teachers who are hampered by ineffective behaviour policies, lack of sen support, lack of funding, lack of time, too large classes, lack of pastoral support etc.

A teacher qualified in the subject they are teaching (secondary). Able to communicate clearly and effectively. Sets reasonable homework which is clearly explained. Marks work within a couple of days with constructive feedback. Not afraid to accept that they may not have explained clearly a concept the first time and are prepared to revisit said concept. Communicates with parents clearly and responds to emails/queries in a timely fashion. Encourages the quieter members of the class to voice their thoughts.

I certainly agree with this, some of the best teachers I have known have been in the worst schools

I’m interested to know why you’re asking, @combinationpadlock. Are you a teacher, a school manager, a parent?

I think @TeenDivided is spot on.

I would emphasise that homework should be meaningful. No more colouring in (looking at you, geography teachers!) or producing posters where the actual learning is less than 10% of the work and it takes far longer than 30-45 minutes (all the humanities and occasionally science…)

I realise some departments have standard homework so individual teachers don’t always have the freedom to set the homework.

I’m less demanding than @Netaporter about marking. Relevant feedback should be given on the important pieces, but plenty of stuff can just be gone over in class or ignored (see above about colouring in, posters…)

I’m also less demanding than @Netaporter on communication with parents. We have no teacher email addresses (except for the music teacher if you play an instrument through school) and don’t expect any dialogue from subject teachers outside reports and progress meetings, unless there is a problem.