After completing my university studies in Dutch, I taught at HAVO/VWO schools in Rotterdam and Willemstad (Curaçao). Later, I taught various subjects (including mathematics and Dutch) at the ROC of Amsterdam. In addition, I have worked as a remedial teacher with both adults and primary school children.
As a schoolteacher, I still believe in a few traditional values of education, such as focusing on the essentials, maintaining a calm environment, ensuring continuity, and emphasizing repetition. Even ‘weaker’ students are often capable of more than expected, provided they follow a program that includes these elements sufficiently. However, I wouldn’t want to return to the teaching methods of my own school days. Understanding instead of memorizing tricks, learning through hands-on experience—these are all modern insights that have enriched my lessons over the years.
I also strive to be a good coach. I see learning as an ongoing search for moments of success. Someone who has tasted success can achieve a great deal. I am increasingly aware of how students’ development can sometimes be hindered by the low expectations their school environment has for them: “She will definitely struggle with language in HAVO,” “This boy has reached his limit,” “KBL seems to be the highest possible level for him.” These are statements heard far too often, and they do not encourage a child to reach their full potential.
My experience in different types of Dutch schools has given me a broad and balanced perspective on education. I have learned that there are multiple solutions to a problem, I dare to follow my own path, and I don’t blindly follow every new trend.
Martin Beeldsnijder