ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the importance for new teachers to understand the foundations that need to be in place before children can reach their full potential; the sense of belonging, feeling valued, and being part of the community of the class. This chapter develops an understanding of what a ‘community of learners’ might look like and gives a detailed description of the author’s experience of being a learner. The description of this experience is analysed with the intention of providing clear parallels for teaching in a primary classroom.
The chapter continues by providing examples of how primary school teachers can develop a sense of community with their class, for example: greeting children, routines and behaviour, celebrating effort, seating plans, pupil voice, looking after the environment of the classroom.
