LORNA TIERNAN

In my art classroom, learning is an active and creative process developed through experience, exploration, and reflection. I try to create a space where curiosity, individuality, and creative risk-taking are encouraged while allowing the comfort for students to express who they are. My teaching centres on inclusivity, I value diversity and continue working so that each student feels respected and heard.

My teaching draws from John Dewey, who said, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." I design lessons that let students learn through making, questioning, and experimenting to help them build their technical skills paired with critical thinking. Students use real materials, personal ideas, and themes of our current times so that art can connect with their own experiences in a meaningful ways.

I also draw on Paulo Freire, who said, “Whoever teaches learns in the act of teaching, and whoever learns teaches in the act of learning.” This informs my approach to collaboration, peer discussion, and self-assessment. I know students come to art from different levels, I always offer student choice, flexibility, and differentiation pathways, with extra help where needed.