Joshua James' Educational Philosophy
As a university student in 2003, I volunteered at a school for at-risk youth in Ottawa, Canada. The environment was emotionally challenging, but the experience allowed me to be inspired by a teachers who worked tirelessly with a class of students who had been identified as being unable to function in regular school. This mentor could see the value in each of his students and this allowed him to succeeded in engaging and motivating them to learn.
I witnessed him transform withdrawn vulnerable teenagers into outgoing, happy learners, eager to share and participate.
More than fifteen years later, my international career as a leader and educator continues to be guided by the belief that when we see the person first, then student development, engagement and academics all fall into place.
I believe that education is the key to making the world a better place. Great educators must possess a passion for lifelong learning and the desire and resilience to help others grow.
I subscribe to reflective practice and continuous self-improvement and I know that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning. I promote this philosophy with my students and proactively advocate this with my peers in the hope that I, too, can have the same kind of impact in my education career as the teacher who inspired me.
©Joshua James 2025