Doesn’t matter how long I have been teaching (10 year this year), the first full day back with the students is always nerve racking. What are my new classes going to be like? Have my old classes changed with new students? Will I remember to take the register? I did actually completely forget how to take the register on the new system we introduced last term, so that was a little embarrassing. I tend to take over Year 11 tutor groups so I worry will I get on with the students, will I be able to help and support them through a challenging year.
As with most worries like that I tend to go for comfort over style. I need to be comfortable with what I am wearing. That is particularly important when the weather is SOOOOOO hot! Not only hot but really muggy. I also chose comfortable shoes, not too high, not too pinchy (you know what I mean) and ones I have worn many times before with no issues. So here are a pair of simple black Clarks shoes. I do have quite a few pairs from Clarks mainly due to the support, cushioning and good fit. Saying that I am quite particular about which ones I choose. The skirt and top are from Roman. Roman are a bit like a cheaper version of Phase Eight, sometimes I walk in and think I am too young for this shop, but sometimes they will have a few gems.
There was lots of moaning about having to do an Open Evening on the first week back, but some of us all
thought it was great to get it out of the way. Of course, I needed to look the part as the head of the faculty (not really sure what that means, if anyone can tell me please do, even wore make-up), so I put one of my Phase Eight dresses on. Always good for comfort, doesn’t need ironing and has a touch of class. Most of my Phase Eight dresses have been purchased from Clarks Village, an outlet centre near me, so make sure you check them out you can usually pick up a bargain. You can also find some bargains on the Next app who sell Phase Eight and usually with discounts. For this event I had my Sainsbury’s flats on for the lessons and then changed in to my blue Sargasso and Grey suede shoes. They are not cheap, but they are designed for comfort and the wider foot. I have issues with my feet after my operation and having bunions so I do have to look around for shoes that are going to be comfortable but also stylish.
The good thing about this week is that it was a short one. Yes we were in on the Monday and Tuesday for inset days, but actual teaching days was three. After six weeks off it is quite nice to have a gentle return to work. I get that those that don’t teach must think this extravagant, but teaching is hard and I challenge anyone that criticises teachers and think it is easy. Anyway after six weeks off it is quite nice to get your head space right to have a a few days back in the saddle and then a weekend.
Not sure if I speak for all teachers or probably for anyone that works, in that I like Fridays. A few reasons, I survived the week and I get a couple of days to recharge before starting again. To celebrate that it is Friday I decided to wear my happy dress. It makes me smile, I can shake and it shakes with me. This is a Roman dress, and I liked it so much I also bought the brown version. The shoes are from Clarks, bought online and are the wide fit. They are still a little pinchy, as I call it, but I am sure that with use they will stretch a little.
Started this blog with the worry and nerves I feel at the beginning of each term and especially so after the six weeks. As with most things, it’s a bit like riding your bike, once back in the classroom all the experience clicked in and it all went well. As ever there are a few tricky students, but one thing I think we as teachers and society forget is that most of the students in my classrooms are lovely. They want to do well and they want to learn. Yes there are a few that are making mistakes and it is our job to help and support them. But schools reflect society, society have people who make mistakes and need us to help and support them. It is always easy to focus on the very few minority students and forget to celebrate the majority. My focus next week is in making sure I celebrate those students who do get it right and not linger on the few that don’t.
Does anyone else feel nervous or worried after having a break?
Thanks
Lois
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