Learning to become a coach for your students

The traditional role of a teacher is to impart knowledge and develop skills in students. In contrast, a coach guides, supports, and motivates by listening, asking insightful questions, and encouraging growth. But what if educators could integrate coaching methods into their teaching practice to become both instructors and motivators?
This concept was central to the recent edition of the course titled “Coaching skills for teachers, school, and adult education staff,” which took place in Porto from 20/10/2024 to 26/10/2024. Educators from diverse backgrounds across Europe attended, such as Aleksandar, Jelena and Svetlana from Muzicka skola Stevan Hristic (Serbia); Riina, Sinikka and Suulemi from Suomen Yrittäjäopisto (Finland) and Anna Maria, Carolina and Dorotea from IC Francesco Riso (Italy), creating an environment rich with shared experiences and perspectives on integrating coaching techniques into education.

The course began by distinguishing teaching from coaching. While teaching often focuses on delivering content and developing students' skills, coaching emphasizes a reflective, question-driven approach. Participants explored how to view themselves not only as subject experts but also as facilitators who help students unlock their potential through thoughtful engagement and guidance. An essential part of the training involved self-reflection, encouraging participants to assess their resources, skills, and professional goals.

Emotional intelligence is also vital for effective coaching. Educators learned about the importance of self-awareness and self-control, particularly when dealing with students' diverse emotional needs. By enhancing their emotional intelligence, teachers can better understand students’ feelings, build trust, and create a safe, supportive learning environment. Motivation and growth mindset were also focal points of the training, guiding teachers in inspiring their students to persevere through challenges. Educators explored strategies for fostering resilience, helping students shift from a fixed mindset to one that embraces challenges as growth opportunities. This transformation is fundamental for encouraging students to view setbacks as learning experiences.

Leadership and conflict management skills are essential for a harmonious classroom. Teachers explored different leadership styles and practiced techniques for managing conflicts in a constructive way. This approach allows educators to guide students in finding resolutions without imposing solutions, fostering an environment of respect and collaboration.

Lastly, because effective coaching relies on powerful questioning techniques that prompt reflection, self-assessment, and action, participants learned how to ask questions that guide students toward self-discovery and solution-oriented thinking. Role-play exercises allowed educators to practice framing questions that encourage students to think critically and independently. Participants also explored the “Solution Focused Brief Coaching” model, which emphasizes a forward-looking approach and empowers students to devise their solutions.

This intensive week of training offered participants the opportunity to grow personally and professionally. By integrating coaching skills into their teaching practices, educators left the course prepared to become transformational leaders, supporting their students in achieving their fullest potential.

Discover more about this course here.