What is the best year to teach in a primary school?

Question

I am starting a PGCE soon, and we have to choose a year group to do a long placement with. Does anyone have a preference for teaching a particular year group (reception to year 6) ?

Answer 1

Try volunteering, and ask if you can rotate around to a few classrooms. You should be able to get a decent idea of what you prefer. I have taught all grades (k-12) in some capacity, at some time, and I have odd preferences. Personally, I have enjoyed them all (for very different reasons). In primary, for example, it is wonderful to teach kindergarten, as the learners are experiencing everything for the first time, but it is truly exhausting, and the prep is immense. The older the kids get, it seems the more independent they become, and you get to enjoy the emergence of critical thinking. I now teach in secondary, but I really enjoyed Grade 3 when I did work in primary, as they are very keen, but somewhat independent (no shoe lace issues etc.). Best of luck to you!

Answer 2

It really does depend on which age group you find yourself relating to the best. Personally I've always loved 3rd and 4th grade the most. You can do more with them academically and come up with lots of fun projects that fit well with the curriculum. They also haven't quite developed the pre-teen attitude yet. Every grade level has it's advantages and disadvantages. It's really individual preference.

Answer 3

Pre K. There is not as much liability teaching Pre K as it is teaching K-3. Plus students do not have to attend Pre K. But they are required to attend kindergarten. I would pick grade 2 before grade 1 because grade 1 is hard! Some first graders are on kindergarten levels and YOU must teach them how to read.

Answer 4

That really just depends on what ages you'd enjoy working with. The younger grades K-2 you do more crafty, fun stuff. 3-5 you begin more grade work, etc.

Answer 5

The age group you best relate to. Go try different ages and see what you like.