This article discusses the role of the teacher and the importance of his professional competence in the process of training competitive, creative thinking and highly professional specialists in the conditions of the modern education system. At the same time, the issues of developing independent thinking, creative thinking and practical skills in students through innovative pedagogical technologies, problem-based learning and teacher-student traditions in the educational process are scientifically analyzed. In particular, the effectiveness of pedagogical approaches aimed at increasing the creative activity of students is substantiated on the example of art education.