2024 has been a monumental year for me, both personally and professionally. After an extended maternity leave, I returned to teaching in June—a transition made all the more poignant by the events leading up to it. My daughter underwent corrective heart surgery in May, a procedure that was a complete success thanks to an incredible surgeon and support staff at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London. Words cannot express my gratitude for the care they provided and the life they saved.
Coming back to teaching after such an experience felt deeply significant. As a mother, I now have a new perspective on how formative our childhood experiences can be, shaping the adults we become. This understanding has only deepened my belief that LAMDA teaching is both a profound responsibility and an immense privilege.
The Role of Teachers in Shaping Confidence
Reflecting on my own education, I can vividly recall the teachers who shaped my confidence—for better or worse. Those who believed in me made a lasting positive impact, while the ones who diminished my self-worth with teasing or criticism left scars I remember to this day.
Public speaking is a skill many people fear—more than 61% of adults list it as one of their greatest anxieties. Many avoid it entirely due to fear of failure. As a teacher, it’s my mission to create a safe, encouraging environment where students can build confidence and discover their own voices. Teaching this skill feels even more profound now that I’m a parent.
A Rewarding Return to Teaching
Although 2024 hasn’t been packed with countless hours of teaching, returning to work has been truly fulfilling. Currently, I teach a small, dedicated cohort of students one-to-one, spanning all ages, on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Among them are aspiring and professional actors, as well as individuals honing their communication skills to advance in their careers.
A standout moment this year was witnessing a student perform a breathtaking performance of one of LAMDA’s set Acting pieces, portraying Antigone from Sophocles’ ancient Greek play. It was one of the finest performances I’ve seen among my students!
Encouraging Creativity Over “Right Answers”
A recurring theme in my lessons this year has been encouraging students to shift away from seeking the “right” answer and instead focus on sharing their own opinions. I often remind them: There’s no right answer—just tell me what you think.
It’s intriguing how difficult this can be, especially for some learners. Many children naturally look for external validation rather than confidently expressing their own thoughts and feelings. In a world increasingly influenced by AI, creativity, individuality and authenticity will become even more crucial. LAMDA and drama training will be key in helping students discover their unique voices, equipping them for a future where these distinctly human qualities are in high demand.
Looking Ahead
As the year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on how much 2024 has taught me—about resilience, gratitude, and the responsibility of teaching. The challenges of this year have only strengthened my commitment to nurturing confidence and creativity in my students.
In 2025, I look forward to continuing this journey, helping each of my students embrace their full potential. I am honoured to be part of their development.
To all my students, colleagues, and supporters, thank you for making this year so meaningful. Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with growth, discovery, and success. Here’s to 2025!
