Signed Off

A couple of weeks ago, I did something I had not done since I was given early retirement from teaching. I offered my services an Authority as I had been told that supply teachers were desperately needed. Partly this is because they changed the way supply teachers are paid. Instead of being paid at the salary level you sholud be on, you are paid at the lowest rate for the first 5 days. Then it moves to your correct level. Naturally many people are unwilling to work at this low rate, especially as you might get less than 5 days work, and therefore be stuck at point 1.

Anyway, I offered and after a few red herrings, was given supply post at Primary 6 stage in a city school.
I found myself in front of 32 of the most difficult children I have ever taught. Well, actually, I did little teaching. I spent the whole of the first day just trying to establish order and an atmosphere for teaching and learning. It was hard. After  the children had gone home  I was asked if i would be back tomorrow. The difficulties of this group were known to all.

I spent a total of 8 days battling with them. Many of the children were unwilling learners, actively disrupting the class. "If you don't let me go to the toilet, I will pee myself..." " I'm not doing homework"  " Are we going to be doing work all day?"....jut some of what was said to me.
After 8 days, it was affecting my health. I told the HT I would not be back. Later, an offer was made to remove a number of children from the class. Bit it was too late for me.

The school had other problems. Overcrowded, claustrophobic, limited space, no board to write on. I have great admiration for the staff of that school working under such difficult circumstances.

Next day the doctor deemed me unfit for work for 4 weeks.
And this was straight off the back of  6 months in another school, where I had had absolutely no problem in managing various classes, being monitered, and even doing a Parents' Evening.

So I am enjoying the sunshine, getting to morning mass and pottering in the garden.

Wocester Cathedral

Notice in Bath

Poultney Bridge Bath

Street Theatre bath

River Avon Bath

I will not be actively looking for any more supply work!