Well, I’ve survived the first month and I’m delighted to say life has settled down, maybe just a little bit. I am starting to get used to the new routine and although I haven’t quite sorted out the my work/ life balance, I am managing to find gaps at the weekend (the odd hour anyway) to spend time with my children, cook the odd meal and watch Strictly Come Dancing! Although the workload has not decreased, I’m delighted to report that gradually little bits of my old life are starting to reappear and I feel a little calmer – no more tears for now anyway.
One of the highlights of the last 3 weeks has been the PE lessons. Now I understand that PE is not everybody’s favourite subject but I genuinely enjoy keeping fit and teaching gymnastics, dance and games to 30 seven-year olds does not really phase me. However, I hadn’t banked on the fact that as a PGCE student you are expected to demonstrate everything you ask the children to do in class – if you are able. We were asked to have a go at creating a gymnastic sequence and then try a handstand and a cartwheel!! The majority of my fellow students are young twenty somethings and they were more than happy to show off their gymnastic prowess. It is probably 26 years since I last attempted a handstand or a cartwheel but never one to shy away from a challenge, I decided to have a go and I did it – twice! And my teddy bear roll wasn’t bad either.
Another highlight has been the music lesson which was inspirational and great fun. It’s just such a shame that there are very few music lessons scheduled.
For the last two weeks, I have been on my introductory school placement and I can honestly say it was a lot less stressful than being at University. Although we had an enormous number of tasks to complete, it helped put everything in context. It reminded me why I wanted to go into teaching in the first place. The children were fantastic, the staff supportive and encouraging — and I taught my first lesson! It has given me a new surge of energy and confidence to face the next month – who knows what it will bring.
Hallo from your fellow OU teaching blogger!
Glad to hear you’re enjoying the school placement…. everyone I’ve talked to says it’s the only worthwhile bit of the course. Though you’ve just made me very glad I don’t teach primary – hats off to you and all your colleagues for being able to teach everything from Music and Pe to Maths and English!
Hi I’m looking to do the right teaching course, wasn’t sure whether to take the plunge or teaching assistant. Although, like yourself, i too am a bit more on the mature side, but have been a sports coach for the past 3yrs. Your story has given me great encouragement.
Thanks, Kel