Face to Face Classes: A Picture of Joy and Pain of Novice English Teachers

This study dives into the heartfelt journeys of new English teachers as they begin their teaching careers, embracing both the joys and challenges of connecting with students in face-to-face classrooms. Eight dedicated teachers from Cabantian National High School in Davao City graciously shared their experiences, offering us a genuine glimpse into what it truly means to be a novice educator. Through engaging interviews, we uncovered their individual stories, revealing the rich tapestry of their classroom lives. A common thread among many of them was the immense joy they felt when connecting with their students. These teachers cherished those special moments of interaction, even as they faced challenges like helping students who struggled with reading or managing the everyday demands of their roles. Alongside these joyful moments, they also encountered their own set of challenges. Many described the exhaustion that came with the territory. To tackle the pressures of their new responsibilities, these emerging educators adopted a variety of coping strategies. They practiced differentiated instruction to cater to the diverse needs of their students, created organized “to-do” lists to stay on top of their tasks, and relied on a supportive circle of colleagues who offered encouragement during tough times. Their reflections brought to light a vital truth about teaching: keeping students engaged is essential. They emphasized the importance of patience and suggested that incorporating peer teaching could be a game changer—many students feel more at ease learning from their classmates rather than from a teacher alone. In summary, these new teachers are truly dedicated to discovering creative ways to manage their classrooms while leaning on the wisdom of their more experienced peers. Their stories not only highlight the challenges of teaching but also showcase the incredible resilience and adaptability that demonstrate their unwavering commitment to their students.