Reflection and professional development

Throughout my teaching experience, I have been committed to developing professionally and personally. I try to reflect regularly on my practice. Through this, I’ve learned that effective teaching is not about being perfect—it’s about being aware, responsive, and open to growth. I’ve also recognised that moments of uncertainty or difficulty often carry the greatest potential for learning.

EPOSTL descriptors

Using the EPOSTL framework has helped me to articulate my teaching competencies and set clear goals for development:

EPOSTL_descriptors.docx (1).pdf

Analysing EPOSTL descriptors that reflect my strengths:

1. I can plan lessons with clear objectives and a communicative focus:

My reflections and lesson plans show that I’m able to connect clear aims with language development.

2. I can use a variety of teaching materials and resources, including digital tools.

I actively use tools like Canva, Quizizz, Kahoot, and Sound Level to support varied and engaging instruction.

3. I can adapt my teaching to suit the needs and interests of learners.

I have described how I can modify my teaching based on age groups, for example, using creative, playful methods with younger students and meaningful discussions with teenagers.

4. I can create a positive and inclusive learning environment.

My experience as a class teacher and dance instructor demonstrates my ability to build supportive, inclusive classroom environments.

5. I can work effectively with others (e.g., team teaching, planning with colleagues).

I’ve taken part in several group projects during my master’s studies and have collaborated with colleagues at school (Liikuma Kutsuv Kool).

6. I can evaluate my lessons and reflect on how to improve them.

Through progress planning and written reflections, I show awareness of my teaching development and actively look for ways to improve.

7. I can use different classroom management techniques.

I’ve discussed time planning, using varied tasks, and tools like Sound Level to support classroom discipline and focus.

Areas for further development according to EPOSTL descriptors:

1. I can manage time effectively during lessons.

I’ve acknowledged that time management, both in class and for assignment completion, is still an area I’m working to improve.

2. I can use a variety of techniques to help learners to develop awareness of the structure, coherence and cohesion of a text and produce texts accordingly.

To improve this descriptor, I will focus on explicitly teaching text structure and cohesive devices by using model texts, graphic organizers, and structured writing tasks.

3. I can provide a range of pre-listening activities which help learners to orientate themselves to a text.

To improve this descriptor, I have to incorporate a wider variety of pre-listening activities.


Progress Plan: What I Feel and Think

At the Beginning of the Course
I feel unsure about my ability to plan and deliver English lessons. I have theoretical knowledge, but I do not have any experience. But I am motivated to learn what makes language teaching engaging and meaningful for learners.
Since I am also studying to become both a PSHE teacher and a social pedagogue, I have to manage my time very carefully to keep up with all the required tasks and responsibilities.

Towards the Middle of the Course
I have gained more confidence through group work. I now know how important it is to plan lessons that integrate different language skills and respond to learners' needs. I have also started using some of the digital tools that were introduced, such as the classroom noise monitor (Sound Level).

At the End of the Course
I feel much more prepared in my role as an English teacher. We were given helpful materials to create lessons that are goal-oriented, communicative, and flexible. Although I have become more reflective and constantly analyse how to improve my teaching skills, I still need to work on my time management. It would be less stressful if I started my assignments earlier.

TEFL METHODOLOGY: The Most Important Things I Have Learned This Semester

  1. The value of lesson planning, because structure improves both, teaching and learning.

  2. Safe and supportive classroom atmosphere, because it affects the learning outcomes.

  3. How to teach language skills effectively – planning lessons that integrate listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

  4. Self-reflection and feedback is important for growth.

  5. Learn and practice how to balance activity duration, transitions, and flexibility in classroom timing.

  6. Differentiation is essential in language teaching (recognising and responding to the different proficiency levels, interests, and learning styles of students).

  7. Using digital tools to enrich vocabulary, listening, and interaction (Quizizz, Kahoot!, Mentimeter etc.).