ToProbationAndBeyond

The Probationer becomes a Mentor

2010-09-05T15:56:00.002Z

So it really has been a while. I think 2007 was my last post.
I have been a teacher now for 4 years and how time flies when you are having fun...or (rather being busy). To think that all those years ago I was posting about: not being able to do the job, thinking about leaving teaching, getting stressed out because of the work load. Well, not too much has changed from those days because I still have days like I did in my probation year but it does get easier and more enjoyable.

The probationer has now become a mentor (not exactly sure if I'm a great mentor) but I am still a mentor. I use to believe that I was completely under qualified to mentor a probationer however now I believe I have the confidence and experience to guide someone who is at the stage that I was only 4 years ago. It actually makes you revaluate your teaching and inspire you to do better in the classroom.

Hard work pays off

2007-04-07T15:57:00.000Z

I have not made an entry in my blog for a long time, but since its the Easter holidays and I have nothing much else to do, I thought that I would blog it.

Anyway, since the last time I wrote, I have been really busy in school (like most teachers at this time) marking projects etc and getting pupils prepared for exams.

Not only that but I was busy filing out application forms for jobs....and I am glad to say that I have got a permanent job in the school that I am currently in. I am sooo excited and happy that I will be staying in a school for longer than a year and I am very fortunate as jobs are very hard to come by. My hard work throughout the year has obviously paid off. I believe that the main reason that I got the job, was not the fact that I am a fabulous teacher or anything (YET) but the fact that I am continually striving to better myself and that I am 100% committed to working with pupils. I obviously have lots of development to do( what teacher has'nt) but I am a lucky that I am able to do it in the school that I am currently in.

My advice to anyone applying for jobs at the moment is:

Big up yourself - sell yourself and always be positive.
Always relate everything you do back to the benefit of pupils.
Show your enthusiam.
Smile lots and show that you love teaching.
Practice answers in your head before you have an interview.

I know that next year is going to be even tougher for me. Especially since the other member of my department is leaving - and I may have to teach Advanced Highers.!!!! But I am looking forward to the challenge and seeing pupils develop through the stages!!!!

Its been a while....

2007-01-22T20:05:00.000Z

Its been a while, I know....but that is teaching for you. Really, I have had nothing to complain about or worry about ( or I have but I am just learning to deal with things).

Question...to anyone out there?

Does every teacher have a bad day and question whether teaching is for them or not??

I want to be a good teacher but it is just not happening. I can see the kids looking at me thinking "what on earth is she talking about?..she knows nothing". Its when I stand up in front of them..and rubbish comes out of my mouth. I felt more confident when I was a student teacher..its really strange.

And this year is going in sooo fast. I will be applying for permanent jobs very soon and it scares me...but yet it excites me also. I do love the school that I am in at the moment, but the idea of starting again sounds good....I can leave all my mistakes behind!!!! A fresh start!!!! Sometimes I wish I could turn back the clock and change a few things!

Winding down

2006-12-11T22:17:00.000Z

Thought I'd put a picture of me here...This is me in London pretending to be a Dj!!!!!

Only two weeks to go until Christmas!!! Whoo hoo. Don't get me wrong...I am liking my job but I am in real need of a holiday...I am starting to wind down for the Christmas holidays....am I too early????

NEVER.

I still have lots of work to do however, Marking!!!!!! I have finished marking my 4th year prelims and I must say I am both very surprised and very disappointed with some of the results. The ones that I thought would pass, did not and the ones who I was concerned about - did!!!! I dunno.

Off that topic...I was thinking about starting up a homework blog with one or two of my classes. Can anyone think of any suggestions as to how I may use a blog for homework.
I was thinking about offering it as homework help/reminder thing. Has anyone got a homework blog already??

What do you think?

FIRED!!!!

2006-11-10T19:32:00.000Z

not really...

Now this rarely happens in teaching - an extra day off. But it happened today and I will remember it for the rest of my career.

There was a fire in the school assembly hall and we all got sent home. Fortunately, it happened at 7am this morning and no-one was hurt.

Now although I was happy about getting an extra day off - I was actually looking forward to going to school (for once). Shame.

I decided that I would take myself into town and buy even more clothes - it seems that all of the kids had the same idea.

It'g good to.....

2006-11-08T20:28:00.000Z

TALK

I have recently discovered that teaching is not an individual activity - meaning you are not alone.

Just when you think that your lessons are crap and your behaviour management is bad - you talk to another teacher in another subject and they are having the same problems with the exact same bunch of kids. So ALL IS NOT BAD!!! I AM NOT ALONE..

I was having a particular problem with one teenager, who was not working in class and being slightly disruptive. Anyway, I was talking to my mentor about this kid and it turns out she also taught him/her. She was able to show me the work he/she had produced for her and she also gave me some hints on how to interact with him/her , having taught him/her for two years. This enabled me to motivate him/her into being more productive in class.

SO NOTE TO SELF: if you are having a problem - TALK TO OTHERS.

PART 2

I am thinking about setting up a cheerleading club in school. Good idea??

Who wants to.....

2006-11-03T18:22:00.000Z

be in an accounts class last last period on a Friday?????

Me but not the kids. As soon as they step foot in my classroom on friday afternoon its like the weekend has begun. I have tried to stimulate their little minds in other ways - like playing beat the class and what's in the accountant's bag - but even then they can't concentrate. At least I know its not just me - it happens to every teacher last period on a Friday.

But I love accounts!

Anyway, I had a sucessful lesson today with my fourth year class. I let two pupils "be the teacher" and write the other pupils' answers on the blackboard. They really enjoyed it and the whole class were quiet. Note to self - be interactive - get pupils to do the work.

All in all, a good day for Miss K.

Getting there.....

2006-10-31T22:18:00.000Z

slowly......

Teaching is the biggest rollercoaster EVER made. Seriously, sometimes I am on a high and sometimes I am steeply going down and wondering if I'll ever get my life back. One day I love it and some days I want to escape go back to uni (again) and be a student forever...and have lies in and watch Neighbours twice a day!

I am making progress though (I think) no, I KNOW!!!!! I have also discovered that, that is what the probation year is all about - learning and progression. If you don't learn then you are in the wrong job and if you don't progress then you are definitely doing something wrong.

I have discovered (from numerous people telling me) that initially I was being far too hard on myself and being over critical. But, its very hard not to be hard and critical of yourself when you want to be good at something. I was hoping to be superteacher from the word go, but have since realised that even teacher's who have been teaching for ages are still not 'perfect' and make mistakes too.

On the positive side, I have managed to move some of my classes to another classroom. Now remember I said that my classroom had a really bad layout? Well, 2 of the classes I have managed to get another classroom for. I still don't have a media projector or a OHP - just a blackboard, 30 desks and ME! But what I am trying to say is that the environment in the new classroom is far better and I now believe that the layout of the classroom and position of the blackboard/teacher are vital to teaching and learning.

The true sign of a real teacher is......

2006-10-03T19:47:00.000Z

when you coun't down the days to your holidays! 3 DAYS TO GO!!!! Whooo hooo

I am exhausted, thankfully we have a holiday just around the corner - pity it was not longer.

I am starting to enjoy myself teaching - even although I don't think I am doing a good job. I was hoping to come into teaching and be good at it, but I am slowly learning that I am not going to be the best teacher in the world from day 1. I am making so many mistakes and I can see myself making them - but at least I am realising this and I am able to try and think of ways to improve them.

I think one of my biggest problems at the moment is that I don't feel comfortable in my classroom. The whole classroom set up has quite bad dynamics and as a result I feel this makes a difference to the environment in the classroom. For example, my classroom has had 20 Pc's squashed into it and 25 desks (2 rows of 10 desks in a row) and one row of 5. The chalkboard is to the left of the classroom (miles away from the pupils on the right) and the whiteboard is to the right (miles away from the pupils on the left). It makes it really difficult to teach, as I am unable to position myself in the middle. Plus, in some of my classes I have 30 children, which means the extra 25 have to sit around on the computer desks - which means they are not facing me. Its crammed!!!!!!

I hate not being good at something though, I care about these kids education a lot and sometimes I feel that I am failing them.

Any ideas on how to increase my confidence? Any hypnotic techniques which will make a good teacher?

Living for the weekend!!!!

2006-09-09T20:25:00.000Z

I am back!!!! Having just got connected to the internet I felt that it would be appropriate to post an entry in my blog - I have not dissapeared completely you will be pleased to know (well my mum still checks my blog).

3 weeks down and I feel like I have been in school for a lifetime. My pupils know my name but I have had difficulty in remember 70 names. They all look so similar!!!!!

How am I getting on?

Well, the first day went well and the second, and then the honeymoon period was over for the kids and its been non-stop ever since. I have paperwork coming out of my ears and my head has not stopped buzzing. For two weeks I could not get to sleep at night because my head was full of information and ideas and worries and stressers and panics....the list goes on. I am learning to chill now, but I have to remember, not only am I new to the profession but I am new to the school as well. I think it would be much easier if you were in the school that you did your placements - one less thing to think about. But I am not, and I am slowly beginning to find my feet - well my toes anyway.

One of the most hardest things I am finding about this whole teaching thing, is the fact that I may not be liked. Obviously with friendship etc you are use to being liked. I am slowly coming round to the concept that it is OK that kids may not like me. I am not there to be liked. I am there to educate!

I am trying not to say too much about my difficulties just incase some smart cookie decides to google my name and exploit my weaknesses. This could be my cryptonite! So if you are one of those smart cookies, I am actually a nice person.

Will I ever get my life back????

Its the final countdown

2006-08-10T11:50:00.000Z

Now, before I was just excited about starting at my new school - but now I am nervous!!!!

Calling all experienced Teachers - what do I do on the first day??????

This is what I am thinking about doing.

1) Introducing myself and getting them to introduce themselves.
2) Going over the classroom rules. (Do you think I should let them come up with Classroom rules????? - and then adapt them myself, OR just let them deal with my rules????
3) Get them to fill in my "Employee" details form - My way of introducing Businessy things getting their name, birthday, favourite music, films food etc and what their aims for the year is. My idea behind this is that I will find out a little about them which may be used when making materials up....

4) Go over what the course consists of.
5) Administration factors.

Arrghhhhh. So many things to think about- What happens if they don't like me. How can I settle my nerves so I don't look nervous.

The Heat is On....

2006-07-18T10:26:00.000Z

Loving the Summer Holidays

You know what the best bit about becoming a teacher is…..the long holidays!!!! Ok, that’s not the sole reason I want to teach…but it helps.

I thought that it has been a while since I have written in my blog, so I will give you an update.

I have been allocated my school for my probation year and I am very happy with it.. I have a good feeling about it and I am confident that I will get along just fine. I will be teaching:
Standard Grade Accounts
Standard Grade Business Management *2
Intermediate Travel and Tourism
PC Passport (a Microsoft qualification)

I am excited about the subjects that I will teach, but I am disappointed that I did not get a first year class. I would have liked to have at least one class. Never mind.

I am trying to get a head start, by preparing lessons for the first month or so. This should help me ease into the job, so I can concentrate on getting to know the kids and the school.

I am currently in the world of temping, due to my lack of monetary funds and to buy shoes!!! The General Teaching Council for Scotland are taking £49 from me on the first of August – so I have to get my money from somewhere.

I am back living at home in the sunny place of Inverness, having BBQ’s and going to my local coffee place (el Starbuckio) to help with my coffee addiction that I have.

My last week....as a student teacher.

2006-05-22T08:47:00.000Z

Ok, so as my last crit has been completed....I can simply relax and enjoy my last week of teaching...before I return in August and actually get paid for it.. How scary!!!! To be honest...I am looking forward to it, having my own classes, getting to know the kids, implement my own rules and routines etc etc. I know that it is going to be tough, seeing as I won't have another teacher to take on the discipline...so I will just have to deal with things.

I am sad to leave the school that I am in right now, because a) the majority of kids are good kids and b) the department that I am in are fantastic. The teacher's in my department are the kind of teachers that I want to be. They are all very relaxed, love their job, and the pupils seem to like them too. Which is what teaching should be about.... I am still far off, from being one...but hopefully in my probation year I will still be able to improve. You can't be expected to be a great teacher just after a few weeks of being in the classroom, like any other profession - it takes practice and experience. I have learnt that in teaching, you have good days and bad days and you have good lessons and bad lessons - and not to beat myself up about the bad days. I can do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On a non- teaching note. I completed my first ever 10k race yesterday at the Glasgow Women's 10k. Today I am a little sore and have huge blisters, but it was all worth it. It was so much fun. I ran the whole way...and I am not sure of my time (find out tonight) but I am sure it was just under an hour....I am so pumped up that I am entering another one!!!! Recomend it to anyone.

They think it's all over.......

2006-05-17T20:37:00.000Z

Well it nearly is....Today I had my last 'crit' of my student year. Thank goodness it went reasonably well, because I don't think I could cope with another night of not being able to sleep, and dreaming about it. Last night I hardly slept.

In my lesson today, I felt the most comfortable that I have been in a classroom. I can already, see that I am becoming more confident and assertive. Today's area's for development were:

The pace of my lesson. I think that this will come as I get more experienced, and more familar with the kids. Coming down to teach kids at a basic level is quite difficult and therefore I have to take him to think my explanations through. So that's not all bad.

My probing during questioning. I have to make sure that I do not spoonfeed them, or talk when they are trying to write things down...I forget that like men (joking) kids cannot multi-task.

So it was not a major disaster....I am practically a teacher now!!!!! With the exception of a few more interviews with tutors and an assignment/paperwork to be handed in. Man it feels good.

Then I had the class from hell last period....and I felt.....like I was back at square 1. The kids were cheeky, RUDE, and I felt sorry for the good kids cause I do not think I taught them anything. But then the real teachers in my department, said that it was nothing to do with me....but the mix of kids...so I should not worry about it.. BUT I DO.

Anyway...I am thinking that I will continue my blog through my probation year....do you think it is worthwhile?

And that

Getting back to Basics...

2006-05-08T12:39:00.000Z

Now for a Business/Computing teacher who uses computers to teach on a daily basis, I thought it would be impossible to go back to teaching accounts the old fashioned way...Chalk and talk...no fancy powerpoints!!! It was hard...and it is harder to become imaginative without all the interactive software,websites etc etc around....but I quite enjoyed going back to basics. I actually found that I CAN teach....that I am not hiding behind computers.

I think the use of computers is a good thing, but also using the traditional methods of chalk and talk are sometimes overlooked. That's my words of wisdom for today.

I played Hide and seek at the weekend with some of my friends....it was in the dark and it was sooooooo much fun.!!!! Imagine telling my pupils that I was playing hide and seek at the weekend!!!!

The Calm after the storm...

2006-05-05T13:39:00.000Z

In Glasgow and the West Coast...we had major thunder and lightening storms last night. It surprisingly has had quite a calming effect on all the pupils. Weird huh?

Anyway...I am back in teaching my 1st subject...and I am enjoying it. I have a lot less classes this time but it is mostly due to the fact that senior pupils are off on study leave for their exams. So I have plenty free time in order to develop resources etc etc..

What I have found challenging today...is how to cope with pupils who have major learning difficulties...I find it difficult to know how to allocated my time between those who have learning diffiulties and those who are stuck on various things. I am teaching Spreadsheets at the moment...and its very difficult when they are at different levels. I try to encourage peer learning...this will help.

When I go fall....I fall laughing.

2006-05-04T14:43:00.000Z

Back again.

A great start to my 3rd and final teaching placement ....whilst the S.E class that I was taking were about to get a talk from a Policeman on the dangers of alchohol misuse....what did I do....sit on a wonky chair and fall flat on my bum!!!!!! Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
The kids were roaring with laughter...how could I possibly recover from this embarrassing situation!!!! Well....I laughed as only a person with a sense of humour would....this went down well. If you can't laugh at yourself...then who can you laugh at.

I am now known as Miss "I fell off her chair Kettles". Good Stuff

Only another 3 weeks and I'll nearly be able to say...that I am a teacher!!!!

I am teaching Accounts (my favourite subject) and administration.
It's all good man.

To camp or not to camp?????

2006-03-20T13:20:00.000Z

To keep my blog readers happy(meaning Mum) I have decided to write again.

I am faced with the dilema of whether or not to go and work for a couple of weeks in the summer at my friends Summer camp in New Hampshire (USA). He has just started his Summer Camp, and this will be his first summer therefore he has asked me to be part of his experience. Although he really wants me to come over, he understands my situation at the moment (not knowing where I will be come August)/starting a new job etc etc. The camp runs from the 21st of July till the 21st of August, and I know that I won't be able to stay the whole time, but even if its for a couple of weeks he is egar to have me there.

Is it a good idea to work with Kids in my summer break???? Should I have a break altogether?? These are the questions on my mind.

As I was saying to my Mummy the other day, being at Summer camp is hard work...( I have spent two summers at an American Summer camp a couple of years ago) BUT its fun also. Plus I really really want to be part of this whole experience for my friend. I don't like missing out.

Ahhhhh.....I actually should be concentrating on my essay before I think about the summer...which is what I am going to do now...(after Neighbours).

Funny thing happened to me this morning. I somehow, got locked in my flat and for a moment I was thinking I would have to get the firemen to rescue me....BUT I got a ladder and managed to climb out of the window...falling on the grass at the bottom. Then I managed to open the door from the outside....

It was funny...for someone watching anyway.

For those down days.....there is always an up!!!!

2006-03-03T08:50:00.000Z

Tuesday...I had two awful lessons. As a teacher I sucked BIG time ...and the kids were running rings around me. My classroom management and assertiveness was rubbish. That got me really depressed and thinking...will it be like this always??? BUT.....

the next day...I went in to the classes KNOWING that I needed to work on these things...which I did....and the lesson went really well. I have now come to realise that second year pupils DO not follow instructions very well, nor can they work through a work booklet very well either. Therefore I have come to the conclusion that you need to demonstrate what you want the kids to do...and have work booklets to reinforce it. I felt much more in control of the class...and as a result the kiddywinkles got much more work done and the lesson was more of a success.

After today....only 5 more days of my second placement...I can hardly believe it. It is a pity...because I have just began to feel comfortable in the school and I am building up a rapport with my classes. It is a real shame...I won't be at this school for my probation year, because it is a fantastic department..

Red wine night tonight with my friends!!! Can't wait

One crit over.....2 more to go.....

2006-02-22T15:44:00.000Z

Phewwwww Glad that is over. I had my first crit yesterday and it went surprisingly well. Although I would have liked to get a video camera in to record me teaching - so I could see and hear what I sounded like. Poor kids who have to listen to my voice!!!!!!!!!! I annoy myself sometimes. I am glad it went well and I am relieved that the first one is over.

I was so tired last night that I collapsed on the sofa.....that was after doing power aerobics!!!!

I am always scared when a tutor comes to visit me.....but they are not as scary as you think.

Till the next one!!!!! Second years --- doing Publisher.....trying to think of an exciting thing I can make them do.

Right, my LTS article is out along with my top ten tips!!!! Check it out if you want....

Good things happen to those who...........

2006-02-19T18:16:00.000Z

Blog!!!!

When I got a phonecall from David Muir at school, I thought "what have I done?". Blogging thats what I did, anyway to cut a long story short, David recommended me to Learning Teaching Scotland to write a new article for the website/email bulletin. So I did, and the article is ready for publication. So I have blogging to thank (and David Muir) for making me a published article writer person, which I will be able to include in my personal Portfolio!!!!!!!!! Now, I am heading for a TV documentary!!!!!!!! Would the makers of Teacher Teacher (a documentary following Student Teachers which was on in November) like to do another series following the life of a probation Student??????? I think it is an excellent idea.

ANYHOO..

My first "crit" is on Tuesday,...and I don't think I have been more prepared for one yet. I just need to remember my timings and not talk for too long. It is not the most exciting of lessons - but it was appropriate for the stage and level of the class. As all my pupils are at different stages I decided do to a lesson which everyone could complete. Here's hoping that the computers are working, because what do you do in computing if the computers don't work??????????

I must start thinking of a back-up plan!!!!!!!

Only 3 more weeks, that's 14 days ( we miss out one friday) till I finish my second placement. TO think...I was dreading my computing placement (and Doing Programming) BUT programming is turning out to be a great subject to teach. The funny thing is that I actually understand it, which I did not have a scoobie doo (clue) when I was studying it last year. I never understood what a Variable was until I had to explain it to the kids!!!!!

If only every week had 2 extra days holiday!!!!!

2006-02-15T20:40:00.000Z

Trying to get pupils motivated into doing work after they have had a 3 day break is very difficult - trying to get myself motivated is an even bigger job!!!!! That is not strictly true, the 2 day holiday I had was spent preparing for my crit, doing research for my essay and some cleaning. Therefore I was productive.

Seriously, Life as a student is very busy indeed. They expect you to prepare for your classess, make presentations up, complete a portfolio AND write an essay all in such a short space of time. Its crazy.

Yesterday was Valentine's day, and I hate valentines day. When is there going to be a student teachers' day?????? Where all the pupils bring in gifts to their student teachers.

I nominate..........21st January.

Rule No 1.....When writing on the Whiteboard...

2006-02-08T15:00:00.000Z

DO NOT USE PERMANENT MARKERS..

That is what I learned today. Luckily....I did not highlight this to my pupils or there would have been much abuse and slagging. My nails and hands are black from attemping to wipe it off from the board. Thankfully, all I had to write was a line!!!!!!!!

Despite that little accident things are going well, I feel a little more confident taking the classes now as I get to know the pupils. However, I do feel less confident about teaching the actual subject compared to my previous placement - but this is understandable as Bus Ed is my first subject. Now that I am on my computing placement - I am glad.

I have taken on board what my teacher has been saying to me regarding discipline and classroom management - which shows that I am willing to progress and improve.

First lesson

2006-02-06T18:18:00.000Z

TOday I had my first lesson on my own today, and I crashed and burned. Well not really, but I felt I did. I even had it written down what I was going to say,,,but I did'nt come over well. My class teacher was in the class with me, and she said I was fine.....but I dunno I got some blank looking faces at me. The thing I am finding difficult, is the fact that because I am teaching programming - the kids are moving at all different paces, so delivering a lesson to the whole class is rather difficult. I am starting doing progress checks so that I know what stage everyone is at.

I don't really have much to talk about because nothing really interesting happened today,, good or bad.

I'm Lovin it........MCDonald's that is.

2006-02-01T17:49:00.000Z

Only kidding, I am actually really enjoying myself on placement. And yes, teaching programming is rather fun. I am learning it along with the kids, so I am more likely to experience the same type of problems as they will encounter. I am also liking this whole thing of 'peer learning', If I don't know what has gone wrong, I say "Has anyone done this part?....maybe you could explain it to x" IT's Great.

I really like my department too, everyone is really nice and the P.T is especially nice. All in all, its a really happy department. A happy department, makes happy kids!!!!! The only thing that I would change about the placement, is the fact that I have not met any of the other students at the school. Last placement, we all met up at lunch time in the staff room - and we chatted about our difficulties, talked about our assignments etc. I feel that I would benefit from maybe a weekly meeting with the other students.

Not enjoying the early mornings though, and the 1 hour travel time! Its playing havick with my bodyclock.

Mid- course Blues!!!!

2006-01-29T11:22:00.000Z

The word on the street is, that everyone of my friends and people on my course are really de-motivated about going on their second placement. (I know I am anyway). Maybe this is because we are not looking forward to the amount of work that will be coming our way in the next few weeks. I am really struggling to find the motivation to get organised for my next placement; which I know that I should be...but I am not. I am sure that once I get in school I will be fine. It's funny though, because we have to remind ourselves that come August we will be doing this full time, and their won't be little breaks at Uni for us to go to.

It is only 6 weeks, it will go past really quickly.

On the postive front, I feel slightly more confident about teaching programming now. I may not know all about the subject, and be the best programmer ever...but I am going to give it a go.

1 Day down.......6 weeks to go.

2006-01-23T17:56:00.000Z

Right ok, today I had an initial visit to my new School for my 2nd placement of my teachers' training course. I thought that my last school was good; but from first impressions my new school seems great. First of all, the PT and staff appear to be really supportive - which is fantastic news for a student teacher as we need all the help and support that we can get. Secondly, the school ethos and behavioural system seems excellent and as a result the pupils seem to be very well behaved. I hope that I will be happy there!!!! Fingers crossed.

BUT...........my worst nightmare came true. Ok, not my worst nightmare - (that would be Westlife Splitting up or they stopped filming neighbours) but I have to teaching Programming in Computing, which is probably my weakest subject THAT I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT. Ok, that is an exaggeration but I am not confident at all about teaching it. Maybe....Ill use the techniques of Peer learning etc etc......so other kids can teach the class..RESULT
Please let this NOT be the bain of my life.

Think positive thoughts.
I can program.
I LOVE programming

Over and out.

Good bye 23.......!!!!

2006-01-20T15:58:00.000Z

Tomorrow is my birthday and I will be 24. Maybe, this will be a good thing, and because I am older....I will actually feel like a teacher. In my first placement, I was having this whole issue about AGE, because my pupils thought that I looked about 17!!!!!!!!!!! This did not give me a lot of confidence; and nor did I feel old enough to be teaching 14 year old kids. NOW, I think I am moving in the right direction.....I may look like I am 17....(Oil of Olay does wonders) but I need to get into the teacher frame of mind from now on. We shall see.

After the lecture this morning at Jordanhill, I have become inspired and have loads of ideas of how to tackle my next teaching placement. It was all about thinking outside the black box; in terms of assessment and learning, and how that pupils do not benefit from getting graded. They should be provided with more feedback and comments to encourage learning. Two Stars and a wish was talked about, but I am going to turn that into "Two assets and a liabilitiy"...meaning two great things about a pupil's work and something they can work on.

So we go out for a days visit to our schools on Monday.....and I am looking forward to getting in again. I still need to work on my confidence.....so any ideas....to make me super confident...then HELP me...

Typical............

2006-01-15T21:18:00.000Z

One of the first times...I miss a lecture (honestly).....and my blog gets a shout out!!!!! The moral of the story is....never get the flu. To be honest, I would have gone completely red and hid under my massive long scarf (that I got for christmas), if I was asked to stand up and identify myself. I would like to apologise to David Muir for letting the blogging and Computing side down!!!!!!!!! I will be there at the next one. Just so you know, "this morning" was not up to much.

For those who are visiting my blog for the first time (as a result of the ICT lecture or whatever) I would totally recommend blogging..... It is just like keeping a diary....but its not secret and people can reply to you. A great idea.... By keeping a blog throughout my placement enabled me to be a "reflective practicioner" and allowed me to put things into perspective (about my teaching and what not). I have also had some great advice from teachers and other people too; and what is good is that non of these people know you, so they are honest. What would be good, is that if load of students started blogging - we could all help each other through the busiest most difficult year of our academic lives ( Well it is for me).

Anyway, time for bed for me....I still have the plague.....and I don't want to miss my lectures tomorrow.

Only two weeks to go!!!!

2006-01-13T12:53:00.000Z

I am enjoying being at university for 3 weeks, because I know that soon Ill be flat out teaching, and have no life again for 6 weeks.

Firstly, I am complaining about having to travel about 1 1/4 hrs to school AND BACK!!!!! I know that because I am studying two subjects that it is difficult to place me, but I was hoping that I would be a little closer. On the positive side, I have heard good reports about the school, so I am beginning to pep myself up.

Secondly, I am seriously worried about my next placement. My first subject is Business and I feel really confident with teaching that subject, however COMPUTING on the other side is a different ball game. My qualification in computing was a Diploma in I.T, so it was basically like a crash course in the subject, so I am VERY scared that I am out of my depth. What if they ask me to take Higher Computing classess?????? I am not strong enough. I kinda half thought about seeing if I can go back onto a single subject program. but I am not sure if it is too late. What if I do suck at it, that will have serious implications on my career.

Thirdly, I was watching This Morning today (a tv programme) and they were talking about Friday the 13th. A specialist on the programme said that if you believe that negative things are going to happen, then they more often than not will. Therefore, I have decided to convince myself that I am a confident teacher, and I can be assertive. Lets hope that this works.

Fourthly, I think that I have the flu. There is nothing much I can do about this apart from bed rest and drink plently of fluids. There is definitely something wrong with me, when I have lost my appetite. I am not sure why I am sharing this, with you all....but everyone else is at work...so I have no one to moan too.

Goodbye 2005!!!!!! Hello the busiest year to come.

2005-12-31T16:12:00.000Z

I am back and I must say that I have missed writing in my blog. I have not really had anything exciting to talk about in the past few, weeks seeing as I am on a break!!!!!! Not for long though.
I have an essay to do for University, and I have almost forgot how to write - but I am getting through.

Can I just thank David for my bar of Dairy Milk, that is the first thing I have won for a long time. For those of you not in my class, I won a bar of dairy milk for my continuing efforts with my blog writing, I was delighted!!!!! But would not have won it without all of your comments.

Seeing as its Hogmanny (New Year's eve to those not scottish) I am going to write a list of new year's resolutions.

1) Be more organised in my school work
2) Be more assertive both in the classroom and out (watch out people here I come).
3) Don't be affraid assert my authority, remember IAM THE TEACHER.
4) Work on my confidence in the classroom, I think part of the reason that I have difficulty in the classroom is that I don't seem confident, and the pupils pick up on this. Even if I am not, work on my acting skills.
5) Ease up a bit on myself. I give myself a tough time, and I should learn that I can only do the best I can.
6) Go to the gym more.
7) Eat less crap.
8) Talk to my friends more, and make more friends.
9) Enjoy Teaching.
8) Be more creative.
10) Enjoy being 24.
11) Stop day dreaming

Anyway, that's all for now folks. Lets see if I can keep up with these new years resolutions.

I'm a student teacher.......get me out of here.

2005-12-15T10:19:00.000Z

Today is my last day of my first placement!!!! And boy I am tired. If any of my friends (who are not teachers ) comment that teachers have an easy life, what with all those holidays. I will have SOMETHING to say to them. Teacher's work really really hard, and I salute them for that.

Overall, I have enjoyed my placement at the school. I have had a really supportive department which was a huge asset to me. I know my areas that I need to work on, and I know what my strengths are. Hopefully I will be able to turn my weaknesses into strengths and my strengths into stronger ones. But, I still need to go back to university in order to learn more and prepare myself for my next placement (wherever that may be). I just hope that next placement will be good, if not better than the first.

I have accepted that sometimes kids just behave badly, and if you have a bad class - it is not necessarily your fault. You can help them in the best way that you can. I still need to work on 'being the boss', which I am finding it hard to do. My parents seem to think that this should be easy for me because apparently I am very bossy at home. What I have realised that I am only bossy when I am comfortable in a place, but as time goes on I will have more confidence in the classroom, so being 'the boss' should come eventually.

Anyway, I am about to have my last class here at this school. I am taking another teacher's class who is absen, so that should be fun. I intend not to shout, because I have developed that sore throat and cold that teachers seem to get this time of year.

I am off to London on Monday for a well deserved break with one of my friends (who is also doing her PGCE). We got a really good mini-break deal - and are going to see NOT 1 musical, but 2.(we are musical buffs). Billy Elliot on the Monday and Guys and Dolls (starring Nigel Harman) on Tuesday night.

Dairy Milk is the better option!!!

2005-12-12T19:50:00.000Z

In response to David's last comment, I believe that Dairy Milk is more of a safe option. Opinion polls show that Dairy Milk is the favourite, and seeing as I am allergic to egg (and Mars Bars have egg in it) I would not give eggy sweets to the kids. This is more of a selfish reason really, because if they refuse to take a prize, I can eat it instead.

It is my last week of school this week, and just when you start to feel comfortable in a place it is time to leave. I have enjoyed myself in school, but I need a break. I also need to go back to uni to learn more. I have been to 97% of the lectures at uni, but this experiences has taught me that I should go to ALL of them. Did anyone see Teacher Teacher on BBC 1 last week? Well, one of the students said that he did not feel that he needed to go to lectures because they were all s**T . I totally disagree, I am not sure what Aberdeen University is like, but the majority of the lectures at Jordanhill are really interesting. Sure, some of the lectures are a bit dry sometime - but the majority of the lectures are very interesting and worthwhile. Saying that lectures are a big pile of horse crap is nonsense, and it's a rude really. For once in my life - I do not fall asleep at lectures!!!!!

I was really embarrassed today too. My text message alert tone is of one of my friends saying "Two steps back man, two steps back" in a really deep American accent. (A Summer camp thing from two years ago -featuring a New York Police Man and a traffic cone)!!!! Anyhoo. It went off infront of all the staff when we were having coffee!!!!!! The think I am very strange now.....it was funny.

Speaking of Summer Camp that is a whole different topic, I actually might start a blog for that too...

What a different.

2005-12-09T17:20:00.000Z

Ok, so those pesky kids who were really hard to control wednesday last period (for my crit) - were really well behaved today!!!!! Typical. Three of the kids were missing today, so why could they have not been missing from my crit? It was not really the behaviour of the kids that made my crit go bad ( it never really went bad) - it was more of my content, but it would have still been a little easier had them behaved. But what a different in the class, without those three kids!!!!!!

and where did the children's manners disappear to????????

I gave out 3 top prizes (Dairy Milks) to the winners of my competition, and (through the inspiration from a certain Computing Teacher at Jordanhill) gave out Fredos to everyone else!!!!! Only maybe 5 said thank-you. I have a real thing about manners - seeing as I was brought up with them - so I said to them (as they did NOT say thank-you) "Your welcome". Do they think that teachers get a budget for prizes or something????? They did not appreciate the time it took me to decide what prizes to get!!!!!!! I orginally thought that I would do individual prizes, so last week I went and bought: 1 big bar of Dairy Milk, 1 big bar of Sainsbury's own chocolate, and 1 bar of Sainsbury's value chocolate for prizes. But, the caring person inside of me said that it would be fairer to give everyone something, so I had to decide all over what to give them. Now, coming from the MOST indecisive person EVER, this was a rather lengthy task.

I felt really happy after my class today. I actually got them working in silence for 10 minutes. I told them I was giving them out a worksheet, but I mentioned the word "Sort of a test", and then were quiet. I think I may use "Sort of tests" a wee bit more. One pupil asked me if there was a prize for it!!!!!!!

Anyway, I must go and get my face on, because I have a well deserved Christmas get-together with all the other Business Ed students. This should be good. :)

Miss Kettles

P.S I have changed my preferences so that anyone can reply to my blog!!!!!!!

One placement down........a life time of problems to come.

2005-12-07T19:36:00.000Z

Phewwwwwww Glad that section of the placement is over (for this term at least). Today I had my last crit and I am so relieved that it is over.

I did not do as well as I hoped, but at least I passed which is the main thing. But it is really annoying and frustrating knowing that you could have done better. It was last period of the day, with a class that any teacher would have difficulty with. I am disapointed with my lesson content because I had spent ages on it and it did not go down as well as I had hoped. In actual fact, I thought it was utter crap and I am really disapointed with myself. On the positive side, my tutor did notice improvements in my behaviour management and ascertiveness, although they still need a lot of work. It is a good sign that I am showing improving, even although I never got any merits this time, it is always something to work on.

The things that I have learnt from this lesson are:

To be more explicit with my instructions. Even 13/14 year olds have difficulty following basic tasks, so make sure you keep things simple.
13/14 year olds like competition.
Try not to incorporate too many things in one lesson. Stick to one context, because anything more just confuses them.
Keep them busy, idle minds makes chatty and distruptive children.
I NEED TO BE THE BOSS.
I AM THE TEACHER.

Another point today, my kids in a different class asked me my age. I lied and now have them thinking that I am a really young looking 29 year old. At least they think that I am much much older than them now. It really amused me.

The night before.......

2005-12-06T18:50:00.000Z

Tomorrow is my last crit of my first placement, and I am surprising calm. Although this morning I was full of nerves, but I think I was more nervous for the computing student that is in my department, than for me. I have all my materials prepared but I just need to get mentally prepared. This should in theory be easy for me, seeing as I use to be a cheerleader at university - but when it comes to pepping myself up, it's a little bit different. The class that I have for my crit tomorrow is really quite tough, the majority of them are boys who constantly talk. Here's hoping that the content should be interesting enough to keep them on task, and behave for their teacher. I am having a competition towards the end of the lesson, so this may bribe them into doing some productive work. We are studying the topic of marketing, and I have decided to do promotion with them. I am introducing examples of how IRN-BRU promotes their product, so this should give them something to relate too. Plus IRN-BRU has a fantastic website, which should keep them amused. I am having a quiz competition towards the end of the lesson, which I have called Miss Kettles's Slogan Challenge.

Here's hoping I get "the buggars to behave" for me.

Taste Testing......

2005-12-02T16:44:00.000Z

First of all today, I felt really good about one of my classes. They were really focused and I never had to raise my voice once.

My taste test on the other-hand was not so well done. As it was 5th period (after lunch) and a Friday, the kids were very chatty and I had a hard time settling them and getting them to do work. What part of stop talking do kids not understand. I did try the whole positve behaviour thing, wherby I commented that the left side of the room were working extremely hard- and they know the meaning of the words "productive working". This seemed to work for 5 minutes or so. Then I did my blind taste test, which kinda back-fired.

I wanted to see if they could taste the different between Walkers Dorritos and Sainbury's own Cool Flavoured Crisps and was hoping that there would be mixed opinions. But they all voted for Doritos!!!!!!!! I was still able to generate some good answers from it though.

But, I am starting to get worried. This class is the class which I will have my next crit with, and they are a really difficult bunch to control. Hopefully having a tutor in the class, will make them be quiet.

Ahhhhh time for a glass of wine I think.

Thankyou for all the help

2005-12-01T18:35:00.000Z

Thanks for all the comments people have posted on my blog, I really really appreciate any help and advice anyone can give me. I shall keep on posting my events on.

Tomorrow I am attempting to do a "taste test "with my business management class.

Now that should be interesting

Never discuss AGE infront of the kids.

2005-11-30T15:50:00.000Z

Ok, second mistake. NEVER mention age infront of the kids. I was talking about Governments doing a census every 10 years, and one boy asked me how old you have to be to be to do one. I said over 18, then I said later on that I did one in 2001. Another boy asked me if I was 18 then, and I said that I was much older (even although I was only 19). They preceeded on telling me that I look really young, "Like 17 Miss".

I am coming up for 24, and so I am still quite young. But how do I give appear older to the kids? Or should my age be an issue. If they see me as being young, does this mean that they will have less respect for me. I don't want my age to become an issue, but apart from wearing bulky cardigans and nora Batty tights, I dont know how I can appear older. Or should I?????

OMG I am finding teaching a tough job, and I have only been in it less than 4 weeks!!!!! But I am enjoying it nontheless.

One of the kids asked me "what id santa bringing you" (A third year boy - trying to be smart) I told him that I wanted a break...........

a break...maybe for a week or so.

Never say the word sex infront of 3rd year boys!!!!!

2005-11-29T18:31:00.000Z

That is my lesson for today!! When describing "Market Segment" I made the mistake of saying that a market could be separated by sex...... Mental note " MUST USE GENDER INSTEAD OF SEX. This must have generated some thought in some of the other 3rd year boys, as one of them (when we were looking at types of markets - came up with the market for Prostitutes).

As I don't really get embarased easily, I just shook my head, and said "not in the classroom". As the whole prostitute thing was a valid answer I just moved on.

Moving on......I really enjoyed myself in classess today. I had three lessons in a row and they were quite tought classess....but I enjoyed it non-the less. But DO YOU EVER GET TIRED OF THE SOUND OF YOUR OWN VOICE?????? Cause I am starting to annoy myself.

another 2 1/2 weeks to go.

Driven to quality Cava.

2005-11-28T19:54:00.000Z

I decided that when I started teaching, that I would become T-total. I lasted until this weekend...I felt the need to consume a couple of glasses of quality Cava, and boy was it good.

After the week I had, I think I deserved a little treat. Still, I did not completely let my hair done, it was consumed whilst typing away at my laptop preparing PowerPoint presentations for First Years..

Thats all I have to say today.

More tomorrow

Star???? OR DisaSTAR???

2005-11-26T09:28:00.000Z

Pheww!!!! Glad that one is over.

I had my crit yesterday, and I am so relieved that the first one is over. It went well, but I know that I could have done better. I think in the first 15 minutes I was really nervous, and that kinda impacted on my mind, cause I forgot what I was suppose to be doing (questioning the pupils etc) so I felt that what came out of my mouth was just garbage, and at one point I think the kids were thinking I was on something!!!!!!!!

I was doing group work with the pupils, which was something they have not done before. For once, they were given the opportunity to talk and I have never seen them so quiet. The pace of the lesson was a bit slow, even I was boring myself at one point!!!!!

There was no major problems, I felt that I was more ascertive than usual- but then at other points I was not. That is one of the areas I need to work on, being them very excplicit. Other than that, I got quite a good report. My strengths were identified as:

-My creativity.
-My rapport and interaction with the pupils.
-My hardworking attitude and enthusiasm.

I have decided that the classroom management will eventually come, if I just work at it.

As Patch Adams said last night

"Never focus on the problem.........always focus on the solution"

Thanks for all the comments on my last entry. It is much appreciated.

Lesley

I don't think I can do this.

2005-11-23T11:20:00.000Z

I am starting to think that I am not cut out for teaching, because I am really stuggling to cope with classroom management. I know what I have to do, but I am still unsure of my boundaries and proceedures. Should these skills be automatically be there from the word GO, or do you learning about managing behaviour as time goes on. I love the whole teaching side, but I am really let down by my inability to manage the little bratz!!!!! Am I a lost cause, or do you think that I can be helped. I have my crit on Friday, and I am seriously worried about it. I have been wanting to do this course for 3 years, and now that I am finally on it am I failing?

OMG. "I get knocked down....but I get up again".

Whilst I was typing this blog, my teacher came in (she said some positive comments to me, and what did I do, I burst into tears. But she has picked me up again, and has faith in me.....all I need to do is get ontop of things....and be positive. I just don't like to fail!!!!

More later

Under pressure......pressing down on me pushing down you.

2005-11-19T23:01:00.000Z

Ok so I might have got the Queen words right, but the fundamentals are the same. I met with my friends from Jordanhill today, and we all feel "Stressed out" man. Although I am saying that we are stressed out, I don't think we really mean it. This is because we are all enjoying what we are doing, and I believe that is a really positve sign. We certainly are under pressure, but if we come up with the results - surely we are doing something right.

Anyway, yet another Saturday, and I find myself infront of the computer for the duration of the day. Thank goodness for Starbucks, that was my bit of relaxation for the day.

I bumped into a friend from Inverness funnily enough in there too, that cheered me up.

I aslo predicted that tonight on X-factor that somebody would sing a "Take That Song, seeing as Take that has been in the media for the past week. And Shayne sang it!!!!!!! How good am I????????

A sign of weakness??????

2005-11-18T17:12:00.000Z

Ok, today I went and asked my PT if I could have a couple of extra periods free. I was asking this simply because I believe that I am falling behind on preparing my port-folio (for non-jordanhillers this is a file that we have to fill out, making observations and documenting our personal experiences). I know that come next year I will have about 17 classes to teach and prepare for, however we won't have the continual portfolio work to complete. I am working 100% already, and their is simply not enough time.

My PT was very understandable and allowed me the extra hours to take off, but what I am wondering is, will he see this as a sign that I am not coping???? Or will he appreciate that I asked for help?? I wish I had never asked now, because it seemed like I thought I was being hard done by., when I don't.

By the way, I recommend anyone doing a post graduate course in something else prior to completing a teaching PGCE. This time last year, I was totally busy doing my PG Dip in IT- and I thought I would never see my friends or get my life back again. The amount of work I had to do for that, is similar to the amount of work for this. Although I feel that this is more rewarding personally - that getting a program to work!!!!! Although that can also be satisfying.

Since Harry Potter is SOLD out, my friends and I are going to see something else at the cinema to De-stress.

Can't wait for a lie in (till 9am)/ Yippeeee

Feeling under pressure :(

2005-11-17T19:57:00.000Z

I have 20 periods a week(53 hour periods). Is this too much for a student teacher?

According to all my other friends who are student teachers, who only have 16 periods a week then yes. At the moment, I am not getting to do any work on my port-folio because I am in class. Ok, I don't need to prepare for every class as some of them are observational, but I believe that my time would be better utilised planning and doing my port folio.

Does anybody think that I am complaining over nothing?

As Yazz sang "The only way is up..."...

2005-11-16T17:07:00.000Z

Yesterday I felt really deflated after my lesson, and thought I was a hopeless case. Today, my lesson went well, I felt a lot more in control of the children sorry pupils (still obviously to work on lots of things). Part of the reason that the lesson went better was the fact I was more prepared. I stayed up till 12.30am to make sure I had everything organised. I feel that my confidence is growing each day and I am enjoying it a lot more. I suppose in teaching, you will have your good days and bad days- but what I like about it, is that every day is different.

Today in class I was able to experience what the teacher does in case of pupils being under the influence of alcohol. There was no big scene or eruption in the class, the teacher discretely took the pupil out of class and then delt with the matter. I am starting to believe that shouting at the kids and ranting and raving does no good, it makes things worse.

Does anyone out their have any suggestions for me to silence the class or make them work silently, without raising my voice.

The only way is up,baby for you and me now.

How do I NOT be nice?????

2005-11-15T17:10:00.000Z

Ok, I am not a person who likes to shout, nor do I like confrontation, which is why I am finding it difficult to control the class. I am in control when I am talking to them, and getting them to copy down slides into their jotters- but at what level of noise is acceptable? In my class today, the teacher came in towards the end of the lesson and had to shout at them. I am not trying to be nice to them, but I am just feeling it challenging to tell them off and make them listen to my directions. They say that a teacher should really not need to raise her voice, but how can I get this to work for me. Part of the reason that I feel, is that it is not really my class. I kinda feel under pressure to be totally strict with them, because the class teacher is really firm with them.

Any suggestions to getting over the fear of being a voice of authority in the classroom? My 'crit' is coming up soon, and I don't want them to walk all over me.

Although my lesson did not go to plan, I still enjoyed the 'teaching' part of it.

Thank goodness for the.......student teacher.

2005-11-14T18:32:00.000Z

I had my first experience of a 'please take' this morning, or rather 'take', when the teacher in my class that I was only observing had to go an deal with an important issue. It was Standard Grade administration and all I had to do was go over a sheet of office duties. The blank faces that sat infront of me either did not have a scoobie about what I was talking about, or they were bored stiff. I reckon it was a mixture of the two. Anyway I battled my way through the sheet trying to come up with examples etc to try and make it a wee bit more interesting. It just shows you that if you are not prepared for a class, things can be dreadfully tedious - for you and the pupils.

I am learning to paddle in the shallow end now!!!!!!

Teaching is a 9am-3.30pm job.....yeah right!!!!

2005-11-13T11:47:00.000Z

Saturdays should be spent out with your friends, shopping, or socialising shouldn't it???? You would think. From 9-4pm yesterday, I was working on my computer preparing worksheets for spreadsheets, and I still have more work to do on Sunday, and marking that my class teacher gave me to do. Don't get me wrong, I signed up for this...but I am just wondering how much it will get worse before it gets better??????

Will I get my Saturdays back?

I hope so.

Dancing Queen......

2005-11-11T17:22:00.000Z

Today, I decided to join the senior Choir.. extra brownie points for ME....We sang "Dancing Queen" and westlife's new song "You raise me up", it was great fun. I definitely recommend a student to join a club or take part in extra curricular activities, does wonders for taking your mind off marking.

I had first years today, did I really look that young when I was in First year? I thought that I was really old1!! They actually listen to what I was telling them.....won't last for long I don't think.

Thank goodness it's friday that is all I can say.

I survive my first week of teaching!!!!! Yipeeee. Bring on my salary

Senior pupils...a little scary!!

2005-11-11T01:20:00.000Z

Today, was more of an observation day but I did have experience of being in a Higher Accounts class. My PT said "how do you fancy taking a couple of lessons soon". Again, I felt the nerves from head to foot and I said that I would see how things go. He then gave me the opportunity to go around the class and help them with questions, and I surprisingly did good (in my opinion). This was the first day that I really felt like a teacher, and I totally enjoyed being in with senior pupils. I was able to explain the concepts to them, without even thinking. Since it had been almost 3 years since I have done any accounting, I was amazed how much I actually remembered from my degree!!!!!!! The senior pupils were more focused to their work, and in general I felt it was a nice atmosphere to work in, and I look forward to being involved in more Higher classes.

I also shared the concept of Blogging today with another student in my department, and maybe she will be the next blogger.

My fiirst lesson....arrrghhh.

2005-11-09T17:43:00.000Z

First week of my placement

When the class teacher told me yesterday that I should start a new topic with the class, I felt the nerves travel from my head to my foot. A day to prepare. Yikes!!!!! My previous preparations involved a couple of days. That was the gym out for me last night.....

I was nervous about doing it, but I had to realise, that was what I was there for, and the sooner I get in their the better. When I said to my Dad when I told him I thought that I was being thrown in at the deep end, he told me that "I would just have to get in the water and swim", and he told me "you are a pretty good swimmer". That gave me the confidence that I needed for today.

I got on fine (I think). I appeared confident in my lesson, however my classroom management needs a lot of work. But, I have only been in charge for 1 hour, so I know that I can improve on this.....

To Probation year......and beyond.