‘Professionalism’ of teachers

Press, 26 November 1981, Page 16

‘Professionalism’ of teachers

Sir,—l disagree with Peter Joyce; teachers’ clothes do matter. A teacher’s profession is a privileged vocation. Recently I read a letter written by Frank Freeman who clearly expressed his thoughts on this subject. Many parents of these pupils are particular about their dress and appearance and

1 feel teachers who are not careful about their appearance will not gain the respect of their pupils. If teachers really appreciated this rare privilege they have in moulding these young people, they would dress becomingly. Sure, we are living in changing times, but we must remember that the young people look up to their teacher for an example. I even go as far as to. say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. — Yours, etc., A. GRIFFIN. November 21, 1981.

Sir,—The solution to two of the problems of your correspondent; C. A. Smith; of S.L.O.P. (November 19) may be sought, respectively, with the aid of a ball-point pen (ink splatter) and Saturday’s election (Merv Wellington). Otherwise he should, realise that sloppy dress is not conducive to establishing an image that would attract better pay. A slovenly teacher is a poor teacher. Contrary to his belief, teachers are responsible for society’s ills. Ask any parent. — Yours, etc., D.A.CORTER, Foundation member, Campaign Opposing Untidy Teaching Habits. (C.0.U.T.H.) November 22, 1981.

Sir,—A. Brown (November 23) implies that teachers are not “professionals” on two shallow criteria. Fortunately they have no Royal Charter, linking themselves as professionals (if that word must be used) to their students' welfare. We all realise the importance of spelling, but if this perfectionist looked deeper, the shopkeeper who misspelt “mat” probably had other qualities and capabilities and could overlook the narrow-minded-ness of the few who dwell on such petty mistakes. Does he rage when the announcer stumbles on a word, forgetting that that same announcer might have kindled some warmth in another’s heart? Perhaps he should return to school and view, not with the cynicism of those who label teachers as babysitters and the younger generation as lazy and incompetent, and feel the care and responsibility that teachers try to give. Sometimes they fail, taking the rap for every unfortunate who tails to reach the peaks of the Royal Charter. — Yours, etc., M. R. BURROWS. November 24, 1981.