Dear Sir/Madam,
My career began in 1980, teaching diverse groups of students, including indigenous students, from Grades 1-7 (ages 5-12) in Australian government schools. I specialized in Junior Primary Education; therefore my initial positions were with lower primary students, where I gained invaluable experience and understanding of the developmental process in learning. I have also worked extensively in international schools around the world with many different age groups as a classroom teacher as well as ESL teacher, encouraging students to be bilingual. I am a native English speaker, born in Australia and I also speak Serbian. I'm currently based and living in Belgrade, Serbia with my daughter.
I am a mother of a beautiful daughter (27) and have single-handedly managed to successfully combine my career with motherhood. I bring many valuable skills, expertise and experience to my potential employer. I pride myself on being professional and ethical at all times, whilst at the same time providing a fun, nurturing and positive learning environment. I am seeking a Nanny/Governess position in a private household where I am valued and my contribution is appreciated.
My teaching style as a 'facilitator' and sometimes a 'demonstrator', promotes critical thinking, questioning, and problem solving. I'm familiar with many approaches to teaching/learning, styles and experience with many programs e.g. British, IB, Cambridge and Montessori. Ultimately, the focus is on the child/children, meeting their needs which will therefore be conducive to their 'learning'.
I have the ability and expertise to incorporate many fun and engaging activities in the learning process to meet the needs of my students/children e.g Cooking, Art/Craft, Dressmaking, Needlework, Pottery, Macrame, Weaving, Drama and Creative Writing and I enjoy and encourage all aspects of the 'Arts; including Theatre, Film, Art galleries and Exhibitions. Physical activity e.g sport and dance, which I am also fond of, also aid the child's development. I thoroughly enjoy working with younger children:, meeting their needs, thus enabling them to thrive and prosper as they grow and develop.
Focusing heavily on the child's social and emotional development is also in the best interests of the child. To understand the feelings of others, control his or her own feelings and behaviors, get along with other children, and build relationships with adults, in order for children to develop the basic skills they need such as cooperation, following directions, demonstrating self-control and paying attention. As they progress, they will be able to acquire many other desirable traits which will prepare them for the responsibility and accountability needed to function in the 'adult world'.
Spiritually/Emotionally, I focus on truth, love, tolerance and compassion for others. I take tremendous pleasure and joy in working with children as I focus on their areas of aptitude and natural strengths, in order for them to reach their full potential. Working closely with parents, schools and the community is paramount in providing the 'duty of care', our children deserve.
I look forward to connecting with a family where I can 'make a difference'.
Helena