HERITAGE Christian School principal Matt Cohen recently traded answering emails and doing paperwork for answering questions and taking notes in the classroom.
The school hosted a Student Shadow Day, a global initiative that encourages school leaders to experience a school day from the perspective of a student.
Mr Cohen accompanied Year 9 student Eli Barber, attending each class on the timetable, meeting his teacher’s high expectations – even joining in a game of basketball during the lunch break.
Academically, Mr Cohen began the day worried about maths class and whether he could remember mathematics learnt 30 years ago. Sharing his concerns with the students helped him to appreciate the realities children navigate each day at school.
Mr Cohen’s day as a student began with the morning bell and ended with the home time bell – meaning he was able to experience the rhythm of a full school day.
He asked himself: “Will the other students be friendly? Will I have someone to talk to at lunch? Will I get detention for wearing the wrong shoes?”
Those questions helped shape Student Shadow Day into a lesson in empathy.
“The true joy of the day was simply spending time with the students and seeing the mutual dedication and warmth they share with their teachers,” he said.
“In a world where so many social structures have fractured, the teacher-student relationship remains a vital one.”
His student mentor, Eli Barber, felt the change of perspective had been valuable.
“It gave him a better understanding of the students and the school,” he said.
“It was fun showing him around and I was happy to beat him on the basketball court.”
Overall, the experience emphasised to one school leader the significance of relationships, wellbeing and student-centred learning.
By Shalise LEESFIELD
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