Name: Hayley Ward
Nationality: South African
How would you describe your teaching style?
My teaching style is relaxed as I prefer the children to decide what topics or subjects we should talk about or how the day should go, while remembering to be firm so that the room doesn’t erupt into chaos.
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
My mum was one of ten children and there was never a shortage of toddlers and babies about whilst I was growing up. Watching their little minds grasping the concept of something new and discovering the world was so heart-warming; I have always felt that whatever my career would be it would involve young people.
Your best moment as a teacher?
My best moment as a teacher is watching the children develop friendships; it is so lovely to see how they interact.
Your worst moment?
Definitely settling-in week! It is always utter pandemonium.
One sentence of advice to parents?
Have patience and let your children play, as they are only young once and always remember play is children’s work.
One sentence of advice to someone wanting to enter the profession?
You should be creative; you must have commitment and above all have passion because it’s not easy but it is most definitely rewarding!
A funny story from the classroom.
One week at school, I had laryngitis so I was whispering and explained I had lost my voice and suddenly all the children were looking around for my voice!
What would be your life quote?
Life is short; have FUN!
Hayley is a nursery school teacher at Willow Nursery.