Prince Harry spoke of the "vital role" teachers play in shaping young people’s lives as he introduced the Varkey Foundation’s Global Teacher Prize.
The 32-year-old royal spoke highly of those teachers who are role models and prepare kids for the "ups and downs" they face in their life.
He said: "I’m delighted to be able to introduce the Varkey Foundation’s Global Teacher Prize. Last year, my brother spoke about some of the qualities of those teachers who have had the greatest impact on young lives. He said the best teachers are those who can reach children early in their learning journey, supporting them, often through turbulent times in their lives to give them the best chance in the future.
"I would like to build on what William said by highlighting the vital role teachers play as our role models. In addition to reading, writing and arithmetic, the very best teachers go beyond the pages of textbooks to teach young people about determination, aspiration, resilience and compassion. We will all face setbacks and challenges in our lives and our teachers play a vital role in preparing us for those ups and downs."
And the flame-haired royal went on to congratulate the 10 finalists who had been shortlisted for the award as he spoke about the teachers who had an "impact" on his own life.
He added: "The finalists for this year’s Global Teacher Prize are from every corner of the world – from the Canadian Arctic to Kenya and Pakistan. But there’s one thing they all have in common – they spark curiosity within a child and nurture the dreams that can change our world for the better. I’m sure everyone can remember the teachers who did the same for us and those who helped us through our formative years – I can certainly pinpoint those who had an impact on my life …
"I’d like to end by congratulating all of the finalists. You’re not just exceptional teachers, you are the role models who support, inspire and shape young children’s lives. Your work is so important and I don’t believe it’s an exaggeration to say that you’re shaping the future. You’re all winners in my book, and more importantly your students’ books."
Prince Harry praises teachers
