What students are the most memorable for you?

[LotsofQuestions1]

Teachers teach thousands of students over the years and possibly just forget all about them. Have there been any students that you have held close to your heart for reasons? I’m interested to see why these kids were memorable for you.

[BackforGood]

It's always the ones who really struggled for me. The ones you spend hours and hours over weeks, months or years, researching new ways of trying things and making new resources for, etc. You become so very invested in their achievements, even when the Government would like to label them as failures, you know they have achieved so much by reaching that target, or by just managing to get to the end of the year without a permanent exclusion.

[Margo34]

The ones that made me cry (in private) over the years. Some for their traumas and complexities which I've carried second and vicariously for a year, some for their achievements, some for their behaviour, some who were kind when I was stressed, some who made me laugh uncontrollably!

Oh and the one (who didn't make me cry but) who gave me a set of small snack bowls as an end of year gift that I use at home every week!!

[MrsHamlet]

The naughty boys who came round to English, and those who didn't.
The ones who did crazy things, like bring an egg to class.
The ones who went on to be English teachers too.
The one who named her daughter after me.
The one who invited me to her wedding.
The one in prison!

[LolaSmiles]

I remember lots, but the ones I tend to remember are:
Students who were either amazing at my subject, or weren't very good and worked really hard
Students I've supported with complex pastoral issues
Students I've got to know through enrichment activities

[Hibbetyhob]

I remember lots of children I’ve taught but mostly the ones who had a hard time for whatever reason - troubled home lives or learning needs etc. I have a big soft spot for ‘naughty’ boys.

[frugalkitty]

I remember the year 9 boy who the others liked but considered a bit 'odd'.... this turned to absolute respect after the head of year persuaded him to share some of his skills and we watched him play an accordion whilst riding a unicycle

Two other boys I remember where two of the 'problem' kids, but on a residential in Wales my back went and these two lads made sure I was ok and walked with me the rest of the day to make sure I wasn't left behind. Of all the kids on that trip, they'd be the last two you'd expect to help out and despite the odds being stacked against them I really hope they've made something of their lives.

[SionnachRua]

I feel the same as Pumpkinpie. I remember loads of kids but there are a few that really stand out. I often find myself thinking about the ones who had challenging circumstances and hoping they're doing well.

Two that stand out:

• Selective mute whose parents were in total denial that there was an issue. I fought hard for that kid (so did all the teachers) but had no joy and watched her slide backwards There are very sad stories online from adults who never had their selective mutism acted on, people who can't use a bus or go into a shop... she'd be an adult now. I hope she turned out OK.
• Traveller girl in a challenging class who used to keep the rest in line. Quite literally lunging at big lads across the table, no fear! I was a support teacher and just adored her. She couldn't read but desperately wanted to learn, so we worked on that in our sessions. Often wonder how she's doing these days.

[PumpkinPie2016]

I do remember lots of pupils but there are a few I remember well.

Largely, it's students who have really struggled academically or with things outside school who I have worked hard with in lessons and seen do well at the end. That's a really special part of the job for me.

I taught a lad last year who was lovely but didn't have the best home life. He was often late and so came to my P1 lesson early rather than go to assembly. I used to take time to ask how he was etc. I will never forget him telling me that I was pretty much the only person who ever asked how he was I hope it made a difference to his days.