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My Teaching Journey, STARTED...
My Teaching Journey, STARTED...
My teaching journey at Capiz National High School officially began on January 16, and I still remember how nervous and excited I was that day.
After being introduced to the dean and meeting the faculty at Capiz State University, we finally went to Capiz National High School, the school where I would do my internship. The principal welcomed us so warmly. My buddies, Shane and Abe, together with Ma’am Angeline, accompanied us and helped introduce us to everyone. That was also the first time I met my cooperating teacher, Ma’am Agnes.
From the very first meeting, I felt so welcomed. Deep inside, I knew this journey would not be easy. Teaching in another country? New system? New students? But with the warm support around me, especially from my CT, I felt ready to face it!
January 19 – Officially an Intern!
January 19 – Officially an Intern!
On Monday, January 19, it became official! I was truly an intern at Capiz High!
That day, I experienced my first flag ceremony in the Philippines, and it was incredible. The atmosphere was so different and warm. After the ceremony, we were introduced to all the students as new interns from Indonesia. The cheers, the claps, the curious that they show me, it made my heart so full. I was even given time to give a short speech. I introduced myself and shared my hopes. And just like that, Zahra and I were officially part of the biggest school in Capiz. What a moment!
January 19-20 – Observations
January 19-20 – Observations
On Tuesday, I began my classroom observations. I observed five classes: Dalton, Lavoisier, Barcelona, Jacinto, and Rutherford.
Each class welcomed me warmly. My CT gave me time to introduce myself, and the students were so curious! They asked many questions and were excited when they found out I was from Indonesia. Some of them even tried to learn Indonesian words from me... how cute is that?
Here’s what I noticed about Filipino students:
They are very friendly and socially active.
They value group harmony and teamwork.
Most of them are bilingual — fluent in English and Filipino/local dialect.
They love collaborative activities.
They always greet the teacher before entering the classroom.
Their energy made me even more excited to teach them..
January 22 – Examination Day
January 22 – Examination Day
On Thursday, I observed the quarter examination of Barcelona class.
What surprised me was how fast and focused they were. In the Philippines, especially at Capiz High, students can have up to four exams in one day! In Indonesia, it is usually only two. They were careful with their answers and very disciplined. I was impressed by their responsibility during the exam.
January 23 – Learning the System
January 23 – Learning the System
On Friday, I focused on learning how to create a lesson plan using the Philippine format. Of course, it was different from Indonesia, so I had to learn from the beginning. Thankfully, Ma’am Agnes patiently guided me. She explained everything carefully and made sure I understood each part.
During this process, I realized something interesting:
The Philippines’ K-12 curriculum focuses strongly on cognitive skills and English instruction, preparing students for international competitiveness. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Curriculum 2013 and Merdeka Curriculum emphasize character building, religion, and social values with a more flexible approach.
Both systems are beautiful in their own ways! just different priorities.
January 26–27 – My First Teaching Experience
January 26–27 – My First Teaching Experience
After revising my lesson plan several times and observing for a week, I was finally given the chance to teach!
I taught two classes (Barcelona and Lavoisier) about social issues. I prepared carefully, did my own research, and even added an Indonesian-style ice breaking (because yes, I’m Indonesian!)
I also shared examples of social issues in Indonesia so they could compare. The class felt sooo alive. I enjoyed it so much. Teaching in a different country felt surreal but also amazing at the same time.
January 28 – Podcast Experience
January 28 – Podcast Experience
My journey would not be complete without sharing it online! I was invited to join a podcast (Special Edition of Quentuhan)
It was such a fun experience to talk about my journey publicly. Thank you “The Quest” for having us!
(You can check the video by clicking the link!)
(Special podcast (The Quentuhan))
January 29 – Pre-Demo
January 29 – Pre-Demo
One day before my final demo, I tested my lesson in two classes as preparation. For the final demo, I would teach Dalton class, so I kept the topic a secret to make them curious. During my pre-demo, my CT gave me important feedback (especially about time management). I talked too long during the review part! It was supposed to be 5 minutes, but I exceeded it.
I took notes seriously.
What helped me the most was when my CT demonstrated my own material. Watching her teach using my lesson plan was a big learning moment. I learned how to simplify explanations and manage pacing better.
That was the biggest lesson before my final demo.
what is a Final Demo?
what is a Final Demo?
Before I continue..... some of you may ask.. what is a final demo?
In the Philippines, a final demo (demonstration teaching) is the final teaching performance where student teachers conduct a live lesson observed by panelists. It shows lesson planning, classroom management, content mastery, and teaching skills.
For us as SEA Teacher participants, this is very crucial. We are not only representing ourselves (we are representing our country).
That thought made me study even harder!
January 30 – Final Demo Day
January 30 – Final Demo Day
Friday was both my saddest and happiest day.
Sad — because it was my last day at the cooperating school.
Happy — because my final demo went well!
I managed my time better. I learned from my pre-demo mistakes. The feedback was mostly positive. One small note? My font choice on the PowerPoint 😅 (Yes, Sir Solano, I agree — font matters!) One comment that made me so grateful was when a panelist said I maintained my energy from beginning to end.
Alhamdulillah. I did my best!
Bonus Learning: Tarpapel!
Bonus Learning: Tarpapel!
One more funny and interesting story — I learned how to make “tarpapel”!
“Tarpapel” is a Philippine term combining “tarpaulin” and “paper.” It’s a large DIY poster made by printing and pasting multiple sheets together. I had never heard of it before! But with the help of my CT and my buddy Abegail, I finally understood how to make it. Now I know its function — and I will never forget that word!
BONUS PICTURE - ALL MY LOVELY STUDENT!
BONUS PICTURE - ALL MY LOVELY STUDENT!
Special Video - Click this..
Dalton Class
Dalton Class
From Dalton, I gained confidence.
Barcelona Class
Barcelona Class
From Barcelona, I felt pure joy in teaching.
Rutherford Class
Rutherford Class
From Rutherford, I learned classroom management.
Jacinto Class
Jacinto Class
From Jacinto, I understood patience and encouragement.
Lavoisier Class
Lavoisier Class
From Lavoisier, I saw the power of teamwork.
My Cooperating Teacher
My Cooperating Teacher
Behind every successful teaching journey, there is always a mentor who guides the way. For me, that person was my cooperating teacher, Ma’am Agnes.
END
END
Teaching in this program was never just about finishing a task or simply being in front of a classroom. No.. It's not like that.. It was about growing also being brave!
There were times when I felt a bit scared before stepping into the class. There were moments when I doubted myself too, was I really good enough? Did they understand my lesson? Am I turning into the teacher I hope to be? But every smile from my students, every "Thank you, Ma’am," every time they joined in and every little progress I saw helped quiet those doubts.
When I was leaving the Philippines, I understood that I had changed and wasn't the same person I was when I first arrived. I came as a student teacher, but I went back home feeling stronger and braver, and know I feel more sure that teaching is really my purpose. These classrooms will always remain a part of my life story.
No matter where I go in the future, a part of my heart will always stay there.
Thankyou Capiz National High School for all the memories..
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