What are the qualities of a good pre-primary teacher?
A good pre-primary teacher is patient, warm, playful, organised, observant, calm under pressure and genuinely interested in how young children think. They speak clearly and kindly, keep children safe, adapt activities to each child, build trust with parents and keep learning. APTTI lists passion, patience, creativity, communication, love for children, flexibility, organisation and empathy as essential qualities.
What this means in practice
These qualities show in small moments: kneeling to a child's eye level, giving choices, noticing a quiet child, and keeping routines predictable.
Qualities in action
- Patience: repeating instructions without frustration
- Empathy: comforting a child who misses home
- Creativity: turning a cardboard box into a train
- Organisation: materials ready before children arrive
- Observation: noting who cannot yet hold a crayon
- Professionalism: respecting confidentiality and safety rules
How training builds them
Courses give you methods and reasons, which make patience and confidence easier: when you know why a 3-year-old cannot sit for 30 minutes, you plan differently.
Building qualities through daily habits
Qualities grow from habits. Patience becomes easier when routines are predictable and materials are ready. Empathy grows when you make a habit of noticing each child's mood at the door. Creativity develops when you collect one new activity idea a week. Professionalism shows in small things: arriving early, keeping records up to date, speaking respectfully about children and families, and following safety rules every time. A simple reflection at the end of each day, noting one thing that went well and one to change, is one of the most effective habits a new teacher can build.
Seven qualities schools look for
- Patience: young children are still learning to express themselves and manage emotions
- Creativity: designing playful activities that hold attention
- Flexibility: adapting quickly when plans or moods change
- Communication: listening and speaking clearly with children, parents and colleagues
- Empathy: seeing situations from a child's point of view
- Organisation: managing many tasks, materials and records at once
- Passion: genuine enthusiasm for helping children learn and grow
Practical next steps
- Ask a mentor to observe you and give feedback.
- Keep a short reflection diary after each day.
- Learn one new activity each week.
Common follow-up questions
Can qualities like patience be learned?
Yes; knowing child development and having good routines makes patience much easier.
What do schools look for at interview?
Warmth with children, clear speech, a good demo activity and safety awareness.
Sources
Course facts from APTTI's published course pages, checked 10 October 2026. Editorial policy.