Richard Thibault
Bachelor of education student, teacher education program
The University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Education has one of the best reputations in Canada. There are many teachers in my family, and I’ve been interested in education most of my life. For many years, I directed a summer camp for children with Type 1 diabetes.
I’m part of the education program’s global perspectives cohort-a new initiative that was introduced this year to help teachers incorporate global issues into the classroom. A friend and I are involved in a project to raise funds to support soccer programs for children who live on the street in lower income communities in Brazil.
We’ve had conferences and workshops, and met professors who are doing research overseas. My own professors are from all over the world-Brazil, New Zealand, the UK. They share their experiences and I’ve really gained a lot from that.
My practicum was amazing. I taught a grade 2-3 split in one of the tougher schools in the city. While I was there, I set up an intramural program for the primary students. It was a huge learning experience for me, and I had a great relationship with my associate teacher. She was open to my ideas and approaches, and allowed me to try new things.