The Professional Teacher
The Professional Teacher does not have a set number of years of experience. In fact, many teachers remain in the Professional phase for the majority of their careers. They are the backbone of the profession. Professional teachers increasingly feel more confident and competent than Apprentice teachers. They consolidate their ‘tricks of the trade’ or pedagogical repertoire. They know what works for them.

Professional teachers spend less time and energy on discipline than Apprentice teachers. Accordingly, they can concentrate more on content. Developing meaningful curriculum becomes more of a concern. Reflective activities are automatic for Professional teachers—they understand why something didn’t work and can usually fix it on the fly.

Professional teachers get their rewards from students. For some, the primary reward is student affection reflected in little notes and gifts. For others, their students’ accomplishments provide them personally gratifying moments. Professional teachers begin to see themselves as part of the broader profession, though their professional world revolves around the culture of their own schools.

To move from the Professional Phase to the Expert Phase, the Professional teacher needs support and encouragement.
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