This is an analogy of the "outstanding teacher" based on the characters from the Wizard of Oz.

1. OUTSTANDING TEACHERS
The Wizard of Oz model

2. Image Credit: MGM

3. The scarecrow
If I only had a brain
• Careful planning where the SoW, medium term plan and
lesson plan are carefully inter-linked
• Subject knowledge must be solid. Able to ‘go further’,
answer questions and aware of the underlying issues
• Assessment data is used to inform planning and develop
differentiated materials
• A range of pedagogic strategies are used

4. The Tin Man
If I only had a heart
• Passion about your subject - this is infectious
• Believe your subject is important
• Care about all the students achieving and learning
• Care about all the students as individuals
• A “firm but fair” approach to classroom discipline
• Develop a climate of trust and respect in teacher-student
and student-student relationships

5. The Cowardly Lion
If I only had the nerve
• Willingness to take risks in your teaching
– Don’t shy away from controversial subjects
– Let your students get involved in the planning, teaching
and assessment of lessons
• Use a range of pedagogic approaches
• Be willing to challenge directives and the status quo
• Stand up for your beliefs

6. Dorothy
There’s no place like home
• Work life balance - get this right
• Bring your personal stories and experiences into the
classroom
• Have a support network outside of your school (professional
and personal)
• Leave school problems and issues at the school gate

7. The Wizard
A little piece of magic
• Do something novel or special; create memorable
experiences
• Involve the experiences of the pupils
• Bring into the classroom unusual or special things [or
people!] (and encourage the students to do so)
• Get out of the classroom

8. OUTSTANDING TEACHERS
The Wizard of Oz model