Autumn Term Completed!

Okay so my plans to write this blog often went completely out of the window as the first term was an absolute killer! I felt like a complete beginner on starting as an NQT and felt my experience was inadequate in order to meet the needs of learners with a wide range of special educational needs. 

My worst day is a Wednesday as I have Design Technology ALL DAY and this term was heavily woodwork based. I haven't been in a woodwork room since high school and I've certainly never taught it so I felt like a fish in a very large pond being circled by a very large heron! The Y8 class especially were a nightmare and their behaviour was incredibly difficult - I had constant dabbing, bottle flipping and throwing dangerous tools across the room. I cried in the cupboard on more than one occasion. As much as I hated Wednesday's, I was incredibly proud when my Y9 class completed their final product and every single clock looked unique - the learners were so impressed with their work I couldn't help smiling. 

My relationship with my NQT mentor isn't great - I always feel inadequate and definitely don't feel comfortable speaking with him about my worries and problems. However, I have fit in quite well with all the other staff members and feel welcome with anybody that I work alongside. It's so refreshing to be in a school where you can walk into the staff room and sit anywhere having a conversation with anyone. 

I have had a constant cold since September and can't seem to shift it and I also caught a sickness and stomach bug during my first few weeks and was sent home sick! Another absence followed shortly after when I have a seizure in the staff toilets and headbutted the sink. An ambulance had to be called and my face took weeks to recover from the bruised and bloody mess. As much as I hated facing everybody after this, I was welcomed with open arms and all the learners were concerned about my health and well-being. I also found out that I have an iron, vitamin D and calcium deficiency alongside an under-active thyroid which is probably causing the extreme fatigue. 

To end the eventful term, I participated in the staff show as a mannequin and a naughty school child - I was incredibly nervous but really enjoyed doing it which is another unique experience. 

I have 3 more days left of the Christmas break and although I have so much planning to do, I am going to make the most of these last few days of freedom. Good luck to all teachers and TA's starting back this term and remember there is only 6 weeks until half term! Hopefully write again soon!