There is much research to support that students in caring classroom communities feel a sense of belonging, have strong relationships with their teacher and peers, have higher self-esteems and are more motivated to perform at their highest academic potential.
Students in classrooms that feel safe are more willing to take risks and may become more willing to engage in behaviours such as raising their hand, trying a new maths problem or working with a new partner.
Teachers at Hawkesbury Independent School, create caring classroom environments. When students have strong relationships with teachers and peers, they feel a part of a larger community and are more likely to apply themselves academically.
“Strong teacher/student relationships shape the way children think and act in school. When teachers have good relationships with their students, they are more likely to feel positive about class and about school in general. They are also more willing to have a go at hard work, to risk making mistakes, and to ask for help when they need it.” Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses On Achievement.
