Thank you all round 16.5.13
A really short blog today. I want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to all the Year 6 for their hard work and brilliant attitude towards their hoop jumping SATs. Today was the final day of tests for everyone and weren’t we all pleased, delighted etc.
The morning started with Paper B Mathematics Levels 3 - 5 and for the majority this would be the last 45 minutes of testing they have at Lyndon Green Juniors. As last year the children found Paper B much more accessible and much more friendlier, this isn’t to say it was easy, it wasn’t, it still presented its challenges to everyone. Like I said, I am delighted that it is finished, this was the most focussed I have ever seen the magnificent 7, they were like different children. I think I tweeted at about 6:45 this morning the following tweet...
A rush and a push and this land is ours. Come on Year 6 one last push.
What a response, they certainly did give it one last push. Whilst that wasn’t the official end of the SATs week, for the majority it was huge relief time. The afternoon brought the arrival of the Ice Cream van as a little reward for everyone involved. You may see from the picture that I was forced to eat two double cones, it was a communications error and I hate to see waste, I did however feel quite sick after them, but I’m ready for me tea now(7:18) After gorging on their double cones, a number of children still had the joy of Level 6 Mathematics to do, this was tough, but once again what an effort.
So that’s the end of SATs, what have we gained from putting our children through them? Nothing! We have rigorous enough assessment procedures to know where our children are and what they need to do to move forward. It is all a load of Politics.
I have to also take this opportunity to say thank you to anyone that has taught the Year 6. It isn’t just a Year 6 effort, it is the whole team that have been with them for 4 years. Parental support has also played a huge role in making sure that these children achieve their potential.
I think after a week like we have just had, I mean we, the staff feel the pressure more than the children, it is time for a well deserved feet up tonight and a huge sigh because after talking to a group of children who said that it didn’t feel like a test, I can say that it is a job well done.
That is all for this evening, I promise the next blogs will be more whole school. Good luck to class 3M on their assembly tomorrow.
Finally, Father of mine, have a great trip to Italy, I am very envious. When in Rome....eat gelato.
Spero che abbiate un tempo incredibile e prendere un sacco di foto
The morning started with Paper B Mathematics Levels 3 - 5 and for the majority this would be the last 45 minutes of testing they have at Lyndon Green Juniors. As last year the children found Paper B much more accessible and much more friendlier, this isn’t to say it was easy, it wasn’t, it still presented its challenges to everyone. Like I said, I am delighted that it is finished, this was the most focussed I have ever seen the magnificent 7, they were like different children. I think I tweeted at about 6:45 this morning the following tweet...
A rush and a push and this land is ours. Come on Year 6 one last push.
What a response, they certainly did give it one last push. Whilst that wasn’t the official end of the SATs week, for the majority it was huge relief time. The afternoon brought the arrival of the Ice Cream van as a little reward for everyone involved. You may see from the picture that I was forced to eat two double cones, it was a communications error and I hate to see waste, I did however feel quite sick after them, but I’m ready for me tea now(7:18) After gorging on their double cones, a number of children still had the joy of Level 6 Mathematics to do, this was tough, but once again what an effort.
So that’s the end of SATs, what have we gained from putting our children through them? Nothing! We have rigorous enough assessment procedures to know where our children are and what they need to do to move forward. It is all a load of Politics.
I have to also take this opportunity to say thank you to anyone that has taught the Year 6. It isn’t just a Year 6 effort, it is the whole team that have been with them for 4 years. Parental support has also played a huge role in making sure that these children achieve their potential.
I think after a week like we have just had, I mean we, the staff feel the pressure more than the children, it is time for a well deserved feet up tonight and a huge sigh because after talking to a group of children who said that it didn’t feel like a test, I can say that it is a job well done.
That is all for this evening, I promise the next blogs will be more whole school. Good luck to class 3M on their assembly tomorrow.
Finally, Father of mine, have a great trip to Italy, I am very envious. When in Rome....eat gelato.
Spero che abbiate un tempo incredibile e prendere un sacco di foto
Cynical me and like lambs to the slaughter 15.5.13
Tuesday
Stop press, it is official, standards have been raised. Apparently it was all over the news this morning....the new Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation test will raise standards. Ask the children what they think of it....the sound of laughter....whilst we don't want to jump the gun and proclaim it was easy, we have done our best, I cannot help think what good it has done.
The children approached this new test with a great attitude, they took it in their stride magnificently well and once again I am very proud of how they have coped. I am going to stick my neck out on the line here and say that I believe the final results nationally will be high and we will be proclaiming from the rooftops the impact that this has had on standards. Call me cynical, me?
So that was yesterday, today was perhaps one of the most intense and busy days I have encountered as a HT, why so? It was packed from the moment I entered school to the moment I left. I'm writing the blog tonight early, actually snatching some peace time at 6:40 before the menaces arrive home. A quick sit down and time to reflect on the days events.
Like lambs to the slaughter???? It was Mathematics test day for the Year 6 today, the magnificent 7 at their most nervous. Whilst the rest of the Year 6 buzzed with anticipation, I was concerned about the way in which they were about to take their test. They were nervously excited and what with the prospect of two tests today, Maths A and Mental Maths, we had to concentrate and be more focused than ever. 25 questions with 40 marks available this morning. The beauty of this test, contradiction of terms, is that reading is not an obstacle to the test. If the children request it read, then it can be read. So no excuses, all prepared, off they went, tramping through the test with me running around supporting their reading and keeping them on track. I think we were all pleased when the 45 minutes were over and we could breathe again.
With only 15 minutes break before the mental Maths test, it was out they go, fresh air and a quick brain break. Mental Maths next, not the strongest aspect of the Magnificent 7s armory. The reason is the time constraint. I know it is Mental Maths but they get really flustered when the have only five seconds, 10 seconds and 15 seconds to complete certain questions. I try to keep them as calm as possible but when it starts, within a blink of an eye it is over. Much relief all round.
No time to stop, quick meeting with staff from school to ensure arrangements are ok for final tests tomorrow and then down the the Infants school for a really important meeting regarding future events. Quick catch up with the HT from the Infants and then return back to school with a huge grin, knowing that wheels are in motion.
The end of the day heralded a staff meeting, where the staff were looking at developments in ICT and integrating our iPads onto our Servers etc. Not for me though, straight into yet another meeting, a really vital one. Mrs. P and I were short listing candidates for the teaching jobs that we have available in school. Not a quick process at all. After numerous phone calls to people we trust and wading through supporting statements, we finally decided that for the two positions we have available, we will be interviewing 9 candidates and watching a number of them teach. That should be a full on day next Thursday.
I'm back writing this again at 7:15 after reading a very apt book to my youngest called 'Five Minutes Peace' by Jill Murphy, reflecting on the day and mentally preparing for tomorrow which could even be worse than today for time demands.
I believe the rest of the school are ok, I employ senior teachers to make sure the world doesn't fall apart when our focus is elsewhere. It looks like Year 5 are creating the most death defying roller coasters as part of their Scream Machine topic. I'm so glad they are not really developing them, I'd give them a miss anyway.
One week left of term at the end of this one, as usual perhaps the most intense one yet, with visiting teachers in school as well as an author joining us, interviews, oh and somewhere in that we have teaching to do whilst starting the very long process of school reports. I think that deserves a, SUCH FUN!
That is it for this evening, thanks for reading, leave a comment if you like and if you don't, why are you reading it?
The Perverse nature of the deprivation of swimming 13.5.13
The title seems a little strange? Well it really is! However, this was a comment that I saw a pupil write today during the SATs test that took place today....More in a minute.
Another week starts and it is dominated by SATs, along with every other Yr 6 pupils in the country our children face a week of testing their knowledge and skills. I will not go into a Rothwell monologue about testing, I promise. My day started by seeing how many Year 6s took up the option of a breakfast club, quite a lot really and I have promised them that the bread will be shown the toaster a little bit longer tomorrow. They certainly can eat though.
On opening the doors today I was greeted with the occasional 'hello,' but more often all I heard was 'you got beat by Wigan,' or 'Wigan won.' After thanking them kindly, it was information that I knew, it was on to preparing for the day ahead and the forthcoming SAT test. Forgive me this evening for only talking about the tests, but that is all I have done today as well as a small amount of administration.
Reading test today, titled 'Wolf Pack.' The test booklet itself consisted of a number of different texts, including a story, information map etc. The text itself wasn't too challenging, however the questions were mainly focussed on the inferential comprehension skill. The questions were very labour intensive and believe me time flew by. I have the pleasure of working with the magnificent 7 all week, having worked with them all year during maths we are using this relationship to make them feel comfortable and less stressed during this difficult time. The attitude of the Year 6 today was superb, they really zoned into what they had to do. All the staff involved in the tests were just as nervous as the children but this is only nervous anticipation of the unknown. If the text type isn't interesting it is easy for the children to switch off. After parcelling up the test papers ready for collection, they are being marked in Kent, it was time to prepare for the Level 6 Reading test.
We had assessed that 17 children would try this paper.....I'm glad it was them and not me. This was one tough test. Again the text type wasn't that difficult, it was more the questions and the language that was being used. The children found it tough, but all we can ask them to do, is to try their very best. I have seen GCSE questions easier than this test. This was where I saw the title above being used as an answer.....clever pupil indeed. After much sweat and very peculiar face pulling at the test, they could all relax for the day.
Tomorrow brings a whole new day, and a new test. Tomorrow we attempt the Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation test, a new test for 2013. I suppose I am most nervous about this upcoming test because it is the unknown, we have only had sample materials and sample tests as a guide, we don't know how the test score will be equated to a level....so we shall see.
The rest of the school was really supportive today, moving around the school really quietly. It is on this week when we really do turn our whole attention to one year group, not ignoring everyone else, but sadly we have to jump through these hoops. More tomorrow and look out for an announcement on Thursday.
Another week starts and it is dominated by SATs, along with every other Yr 6 pupils in the country our children face a week of testing their knowledge and skills. I will not go into a Rothwell monologue about testing, I promise. My day started by seeing how many Year 6s took up the option of a breakfast club, quite a lot really and I have promised them that the bread will be shown the toaster a little bit longer tomorrow. They certainly can eat though.
On opening the doors today I was greeted with the occasional 'hello,' but more often all I heard was 'you got beat by Wigan,' or 'Wigan won.' After thanking them kindly, it was information that I knew, it was on to preparing for the day ahead and the forthcoming SAT test. Forgive me this evening for only talking about the tests, but that is all I have done today as well as a small amount of administration.
Reading test today, titled 'Wolf Pack.' The test booklet itself consisted of a number of different texts, including a story, information map etc. The text itself wasn't too challenging, however the questions were mainly focussed on the inferential comprehension skill. The questions were very labour intensive and believe me time flew by. I have the pleasure of working with the magnificent 7 all week, having worked with them all year during maths we are using this relationship to make them feel comfortable and less stressed during this difficult time. The attitude of the Year 6 today was superb, they really zoned into what they had to do. All the staff involved in the tests were just as nervous as the children but this is only nervous anticipation of the unknown. If the text type isn't interesting it is easy for the children to switch off. After parcelling up the test papers ready for collection, they are being marked in Kent, it was time to prepare for the Level 6 Reading test.
We had assessed that 17 children would try this paper.....I'm glad it was them and not me. This was one tough test. Again the text type wasn't that difficult, it was more the questions and the language that was being used. The children found it tough, but all we can ask them to do, is to try their very best. I have seen GCSE questions easier than this test. This was where I saw the title above being used as an answer.....clever pupil indeed. After much sweat and very peculiar face pulling at the test, they could all relax for the day.
Tomorrow brings a whole new day, and a new test. Tomorrow we attempt the Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation test, a new test for 2013. I suppose I am most nervous about this upcoming test because it is the unknown, we have only had sample materials and sample tests as a guide, we don't know how the test score will be equated to a level....so we shall see.
The rest of the school was really supportive today, moving around the school really quietly. It is on this week when we really do turn our whole attention to one year group, not ignoring everyone else, but sadly we have to jump through these hoops. More tomorrow and look out for an announcement on Thursday.
Looking forward whilst not ignoring the past 10.5.13
The future is terrifying, what will happen to us? I remember watching the film 'Back to the Future' and thinking how great it looks but recently the date that Marty McFly zoomed to in the future is a date that has already passed. Watching films like 'Bladerunner' I am really disappointed that I don't drive a flying car etc. The future that we believed in has failed to materialise and I for one am truly disappointed......
Enough silliness, the future is ours to shape, create, mould and predict, our actions now determine what will happen in the years to come. As educators, if we do not inspire our children then we are not giving them the full opportunities to develop themselves in the future. Is the willingness to learn intrinsically built into us or is it something that we can learn? To stand at the edge of your future is for some exciting and some very daunting, this is due I suppose to the unknown and how individuals deal with unknown situations. I say this, because this morning I was at a meeting that could help to change our future and how we work with other schools. We are fortunate to be involved in the early stages of a Teaching School Alliance as one of its partners. Teaching Schools are an interesting model of working together to raise standards and create better opportunities for all our children across our city. I personally feel collaboration is the way to improve every aspect of education, we can all stand on our own and think that we are amazing but we can learn from others constantly. When do we ever stop learning? How many times do we hear the phrase,
'You learn something new everyday'
You hear it all the time. I know that I learn something new everyday, but for this to happen you have to have your eyes open and be prepared to learn something new. The past can often hinder us when trying things that are new, because we can become entrenched in what it was like in the old days. I agree we can learn from the past but and a big but, not to the detriment of the future. Whilst the political landscape for education is currently unstable, with Mr. Gove and his Mr. Men history, it is up to us as educators to shape the future and make it fun to learn. I like to read about models of education, and I have written about Finland before, a recent one I have looked at is the SteinerWaldorf model. http://www.steinerwaldorf.org.ukSounds ideal but I wonder how practical it is. Meetings like this mornings and future ones coming up really are leading us to create our future.
It has been a really busy week, especially for a 4 day week, elements of it I want to forget but they won't happen again, but on the whole it has been another really focussed week. You can see the newsletter below and the highlights from this week are
It is weekend again. I shall be doing Birthday party number two for Ellie (oh believe me, she has another one yet) and mostly catching up on sleep.
I love this link below, as it is exam season, it is amazing to see what lengths we go to for success. It reminds me how I had a lucky wash routine when I was growing up. It always occurred around the 75th minute of any Man City match. I thought it brought us luck. I think it worked once.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-22465114#
Last word tonight, I love my music so I have added a link for you to listen to. Fabulous voice by an artist called Passenger, with a little twist at the very end. If you like it, you know where you heard it first. Have a great weekend everyone. I will add photos later, just waiting to include the 10M trip to Twycross Zoo.
Enough silliness, the future is ours to shape, create, mould and predict, our actions now determine what will happen in the years to come. As educators, if we do not inspire our children then we are not giving them the full opportunities to develop themselves in the future. Is the willingness to learn intrinsically built into us or is it something that we can learn? To stand at the edge of your future is for some exciting and some very daunting, this is due I suppose to the unknown and how individuals deal with unknown situations. I say this, because this morning I was at a meeting that could help to change our future and how we work with other schools. We are fortunate to be involved in the early stages of a Teaching School Alliance as one of its partners. Teaching Schools are an interesting model of working together to raise standards and create better opportunities for all our children across our city. I personally feel collaboration is the way to improve every aspect of education, we can all stand on our own and think that we are amazing but we can learn from others constantly. When do we ever stop learning? How many times do we hear the phrase,
'You learn something new everyday'
You hear it all the time. I know that I learn something new everyday, but for this to happen you have to have your eyes open and be prepared to learn something new. The past can often hinder us when trying things that are new, because we can become entrenched in what it was like in the old days. I agree we can learn from the past but and a big but, not to the detriment of the future. Whilst the political landscape for education is currently unstable, with Mr. Gove and his Mr. Men history, it is up to us as educators to shape the future and make it fun to learn. I like to read about models of education, and I have written about Finland before, a recent one I have looked at is the SteinerWaldorf model. http://www.steinerwaldorf.org.ukSounds ideal but I wonder how practical it is. Meetings like this mornings and future ones coming up really are leading us to create our future.
It has been a really busy week, especially for a 4 day week, elements of it I want to forget but they won't happen again, but on the whole it has been another really focussed week. You can see the newsletter below and the highlights from this week are
- All Birmingham Champions and resounding wins
- SATs tests timetable
- Overwhelming response
It is weekend again. I shall be doing Birthday party number two for Ellie (oh believe me, she has another one yet) and mostly catching up on sleep.
I love this link below, as it is exam season, it is amazing to see what lengths we go to for success. It reminds me how I had a lucky wash routine when I was growing up. It always occurred around the 75th minute of any Man City match. I thought it brought us luck. I think it worked once.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-22465114#
Last word tonight, I love my music so I have added a link for you to listen to. Fabulous voice by an artist called Passenger, with a little twist at the very end. If you like it, you know where you heard it first. Have a great weekend everyone. I will add photos later, just waiting to include the 10M trip to Twycross Zoo.
Looking at the moon, wondering who else might be looking 9.5.13
Once again as I sit down to write this evenings blog we still have events taking place that involve the pupils of Lyndon Green Juniors. The boys football team are still in action in two league matches this evening. The first result against Holy Family, a resounding 11 - 0 win, prompting Mr. Sheehan to offer a happy meal for all the team each if they register a 20 - 0 win in their next game. Whilst not wanting to disrespect the opposition, a small goal to aim for is well worth it. One day this will happen.
Another really focussed day in school today, welcoming everyone in this morning and hearing the chitter chatter as they all come in always lifts your spirits. I love that moment when you have just opened the door and you are then flooded with a plethora of hellos or mornings. Makes everything worthwhile.
My day was planned down to the minute today with a whole host of different things to complete. The magnificent 7 were not so today, I think it is last minute nerves, that, or they had every single bit of Numeracy information sucked out of their brains during the night. I know they want to do their best, and I don't mind confusion or bewilderment as long as they have tried. They can save their best for next Wednesday and Thursday. Confirmation for events next week are all in place, breakfast club from 8:00 with toast, juice, yoghurt and fruit available and then finally at the end of the week if their effort and attitude has been spot on, we might even invite Mr. Whippy into school. We shall see.
After Numeracy, it was diary meeting time. A lot to get through especially with the Year 6 SATs, making sure that we have cover for staff involved and just shuffling times and people about, then making sure all our staff know about it before the weekend.
This afternoon I had the pleasure of being able to watch Class 3C's assembly, sadly I am not in school in the morning (I'm at a meeting) and therefore I won't be able to front the assembly in front of the parents, so to be able to watch the final rehearsals was a delight. I don't want to spoil it for everyone but it was superb. I am sure everyone will enjoy it. The assembly will be full on again, we will be welcoming another class from the Infant school as part of their transition to the Juniors, plus we will be presenting the Futsal trophy to the all conquering team. Jam packed.
Hopefully tomorrow we will also get pictures from 10M as they are going on a trip to Twycross Zoo as part of their Mini Zoo topic. I hope you all have a great day and watch out for those monkeys, they are extremely mischievous.
The title of the blog this evening is linked to an event that took place last night and made me think about events and coincidences. At about 9:30 last night, Twitter went mad with reports of a fireball in the sky, it seemed to spread across most of the country, it is believed that it was only space junk burning up as it entered our atmosphere. You can see from the news footage on the link below how it was captured as it crossed Cardiff.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22460642
As I looked out the window trying to see if I could get a glimpse of it, I saw the moon and at that point I wondered who else would be looking at the moon at that time. More deep thoughts Mr. R. Do people and their actions mirror each other in any way????? Ok, too much, far too early. However, next time, think when you look skyward or do a simple task, is someone else doing that task too?
Ok, I am confusing myself and for no reason. As I finish the blog, I still haven't heard whether or not Mr. Sheehan will have to provide all the football team with a happy meal. Fingers crossed he has too.
Have a fabulous evening everyone. Look skywards, especially if you live (as some readers do) where light pollution doesn't occur, you will see some amazing sights. Enjoy, Mr. R.
****Stop Press***** His wallet is safe, a 4 - 0 win all but secures the league and the treble. Can you believe it?
Another really focussed day in school today, welcoming everyone in this morning and hearing the chitter chatter as they all come in always lifts your spirits. I love that moment when you have just opened the door and you are then flooded with a plethora of hellos or mornings. Makes everything worthwhile.
My day was planned down to the minute today with a whole host of different things to complete. The magnificent 7 were not so today, I think it is last minute nerves, that, or they had every single bit of Numeracy information sucked out of their brains during the night. I know they want to do their best, and I don't mind confusion or bewilderment as long as they have tried. They can save their best for next Wednesday and Thursday. Confirmation for events next week are all in place, breakfast club from 8:00 with toast, juice, yoghurt and fruit available and then finally at the end of the week if their effort and attitude has been spot on, we might even invite Mr. Whippy into school. We shall see.
After Numeracy, it was diary meeting time. A lot to get through especially with the Year 6 SATs, making sure that we have cover for staff involved and just shuffling times and people about, then making sure all our staff know about it before the weekend.
This afternoon I had the pleasure of being able to watch Class 3C's assembly, sadly I am not in school in the morning (I'm at a meeting) and therefore I won't be able to front the assembly in front of the parents, so to be able to watch the final rehearsals was a delight. I don't want to spoil it for everyone but it was superb. I am sure everyone will enjoy it. The assembly will be full on again, we will be welcoming another class from the Infant school as part of their transition to the Juniors, plus we will be presenting the Futsal trophy to the all conquering team. Jam packed.
Hopefully tomorrow we will also get pictures from 10M as they are going on a trip to Twycross Zoo as part of their Mini Zoo topic. I hope you all have a great day and watch out for those monkeys, they are extremely mischievous.
The title of the blog this evening is linked to an event that took place last night and made me think about events and coincidences. At about 9:30 last night, Twitter went mad with reports of a fireball in the sky, it seemed to spread across most of the country, it is believed that it was only space junk burning up as it entered our atmosphere. You can see from the news footage on the link below how it was captured as it crossed Cardiff.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-22460642
As I looked out the window trying to see if I could get a glimpse of it, I saw the moon and at that point I wondered who else would be looking at the moon at that time. More deep thoughts Mr. R. Do people and their actions mirror each other in any way????? Ok, too much, far too early. However, next time, think when you look skyward or do a simple task, is someone else doing that task too?
Ok, I am confusing myself and for no reason. As I finish the blog, I still haven't heard whether or not Mr. Sheehan will have to provide all the football team with a happy meal. Fingers crossed he has too.
Have a fabulous evening everyone. Look skywards, especially if you live (as some readers do) where light pollution doesn't occur, you will see some amazing sights. Enjoy, Mr. R.
****Stop Press***** His wallet is safe, a 4 - 0 win all but secures the league and the treble. Can you believe it?
Step away from the computer victor 8.5.13
Many, many apologies for turning the blog last night into a moan fest. I think, on reflection the best course of action that I could have taken would have been not to blog at all, but seeing as though I had already started it, I felt it was important to finish. So Victor is going back into his box and yes I agree with the comments that this is part of my story and if this blog is the perspective of a Head Teacher, then this HT will not tolerate verbal abuse or accept it.
Today I sought sanctuary to start my day, I went to a place where I knew I would be safe and secure and feel happy on the inside. Yes I went to the Apple store. Not just to shop mind you, or on my own. I accompanied our school Web Team as they undertook a 'Fieldtrip' It was an opportunity for the children that are involved in ICT throughout the school to learn from the experts. You can see the pictures below of the children totally engrossed in their activities. Everyone was treated brilliantly and we were made to feel so welcome by the staff. The children are already very confident when using tablets etc. as are all our children throughout the school. It is an area that I feel is important to be able to keep up with. Technology is ever evolving and to give our children the life experiences then we must provide them with the hardware. I don't want them to be too dependent on technology, resulting in common sense going out of the window and then they copy the lady in the story from the blog yesterday.
The children were asked to create a movie trailer with iMovie and after lots of posing, pouting and general fun, the final results were fabulous. It was a shame that the staff were using demonstration ipads as it meant we couldn't keep what the children had completed. Just an excuse to play and have more fun back at school. Thank you to all the children of the Web Team, you were brilliant representatives of our school. I am so proud of you.
I am really excited about events that are going to take place later on this afternoon once everyone has gone home. Mrs. Pitt and I will be showing people around our school. Why? Well we are looking to invite some new teachers to our school, we would like two new teachers to come and join us and share in what we do. It's brilliant to be able to show our school off, the downside is that our children won't be here whilst we are doing it. We are very picky about who works here, we want the best teachers that are available, we want them to be inspirational, fun, engaging and mostly we want them to want to work with us. In that way they want to give their best every single day. I want to hear the sound of laughter, the sound of learning and the excited chatter about learning coming from the classrooms. Is it too much to ask? Not for our children. So it is our job to find the best, to inspire, to ensure fun and learning go hand in hand, they must be a priority when choosing the best fit for our school. So it is over to us.
Okay, just got home and after reading 'Duck in a truck,' I have the perfect opportunity to complete tonights entry. We have done it, we have shown off our school to the best of our ability, after talking non stop for an hour and ten minutes, it was time to release the visitors back to their homes. Will we see them again? I hope so. Will they apply for the jobs? Who knows. I am sure whatever happens that Mrs. Pitt and I will get it right. The closing date for applications is the 15th, we have received four already and none of those attended the informal walk round tonight. How can you decide whether you want to work somewhere without seeing it? It would be like buying wallpaper without seeing it first.... never mind, the process will unfold and when it is time for interviews then we will be making sure we see how they interact with our children. One thing that tonight has done....It has restored my brief lull for the school. After yesterday, it was easy to feel disillusioned but walking around and talking about our school, its children and community gives you the buzz. The potential is endless. I heard a great phrase once, I think it goes along the lines of:
Why reach for the stars, when there are footsteps on the moon.
Slightly cheesy I know, but we have exciting times ahead at LGJS and it is my job to inspire and drive forward the school and not to mope and be all Victor Meldrew. Tomorrow is another day and my inspiration will come from the 370 individuals that will walk through those doors tomorrow morning. On that note I wish you all a good evening , and I will see you all tomorrow, apart from our Polish friends.
Today I sought sanctuary to start my day, I went to a place where I knew I would be safe and secure and feel happy on the inside. Yes I went to the Apple store. Not just to shop mind you, or on my own. I accompanied our school Web Team as they undertook a 'Fieldtrip' It was an opportunity for the children that are involved in ICT throughout the school to learn from the experts. You can see the pictures below of the children totally engrossed in their activities. Everyone was treated brilliantly and we were made to feel so welcome by the staff. The children are already very confident when using tablets etc. as are all our children throughout the school. It is an area that I feel is important to be able to keep up with. Technology is ever evolving and to give our children the life experiences then we must provide them with the hardware. I don't want them to be too dependent on technology, resulting in common sense going out of the window and then they copy the lady in the story from the blog yesterday.
The children were asked to create a movie trailer with iMovie and after lots of posing, pouting and general fun, the final results were fabulous. It was a shame that the staff were using demonstration ipads as it meant we couldn't keep what the children had completed. Just an excuse to play and have more fun back at school. Thank you to all the children of the Web Team, you were brilliant representatives of our school. I am so proud of you.
I am really excited about events that are going to take place later on this afternoon once everyone has gone home. Mrs. Pitt and I will be showing people around our school. Why? Well we are looking to invite some new teachers to our school, we would like two new teachers to come and join us and share in what we do. It's brilliant to be able to show our school off, the downside is that our children won't be here whilst we are doing it. We are very picky about who works here, we want the best teachers that are available, we want them to be inspirational, fun, engaging and mostly we want them to want to work with us. In that way they want to give their best every single day. I want to hear the sound of laughter, the sound of learning and the excited chatter about learning coming from the classrooms. Is it too much to ask? Not for our children. So it is our job to find the best, to inspire, to ensure fun and learning go hand in hand, they must be a priority when choosing the best fit for our school. So it is over to us.
Okay, just got home and after reading 'Duck in a truck,' I have the perfect opportunity to complete tonights entry. We have done it, we have shown off our school to the best of our ability, after talking non stop for an hour and ten minutes, it was time to release the visitors back to their homes. Will we see them again? I hope so. Will they apply for the jobs? Who knows. I am sure whatever happens that Mrs. Pitt and I will get it right. The closing date for applications is the 15th, we have received four already and none of those attended the informal walk round tonight. How can you decide whether you want to work somewhere without seeing it? It would be like buying wallpaper without seeing it first.... never mind, the process will unfold and when it is time for interviews then we will be making sure we see how they interact with our children. One thing that tonight has done....It has restored my brief lull for the school. After yesterday, it was easy to feel disillusioned but walking around and talking about our school, its children and community gives you the buzz. The potential is endless. I heard a great phrase once, I think it goes along the lines of:
Why reach for the stars, when there are footsteps on the moon.
Slightly cheesy I know, but we have exciting times ahead at LGJS and it is my job to inspire and drive forward the school and not to mope and be all Victor Meldrew. Tomorrow is another day and my inspiration will come from the 370 individuals that will walk through those doors tomorrow morning. On that note I wish you all a good evening , and I will see you all tomorrow, apart from our Polish friends.
Woah! Hold your horses! 7.5.13
Welcome back after a lovely weekend of wall to wall sunshine. If you read the blog on Friday, then you would know that I spent yesterday in the beautiful village of Bourton on the Water in the Cotswolds. It truly was a beautiful place but so busy. It was great to see my two children quite freely playing in the river that runs right through the centre of the village without a care in the world, innocence of youth!! But memories like that will stay with them for ever, I hope!
Great to return today and see everyone arriving without coats etc. However, not to be so much of a pessimist, I have heard that we won't see the sun in the same way for awhile. Glad we all had the opportunity to enjoy it even for such a short space of time.
Today was a real mixed bag of emotions, it was great to come back, to hear the chatter of the children, to see them relaxing and enjoying the sun at play times, but sadly the day didn't end on a good note. The magnificent 7 were in good form during their lesson which we spent looking at timetables and being able to work out time differences. I was really pleased with the whole session. The rest of the day was spent completing paperwork and trying to sort out developing issues.
The end of the day came very quickly and I suppose it is one I would like to forget quickly, but in all honesty it is a side of the job no one likes or should tolerate. The less said the better but tolerance, respect and manners when you are trying to do the best for everyone seems to be forgotten all to easily.
Last update, very quickly, it was great to hear the boys football team with another positive result again tonight. A 2 - 2 draw against Hobmoor means that in the league we are still undefeated. In other football news, if you don't follow the school on Twitter, we have just become the All Birmingham Futsal Champions as well as the All Birmingham Years 4 and 5 Champions. They really are a super talented group of children. proud of everyone of you. You make my job worthwhile!!!!
You can tell I write the blog in different steps. What follows was written before the end of the day and therefore seems upbeat. I try to ensure the whole blog feels ultra positive tomorrow.
I have had a recent rise again from our friends in Poland and other countries. Alot of these requests have been to do with blogging and which platform I have been using. I don't want to turn this blog into a geekfest so if you want questions answered in relation to individual queries then you will find my email address at the top of the blog or you can email [email protected] and I will get back to you as quickly as possible with as much i
Finally today an article I stumbled across, surely highlighting the dangers of relying on technology and not using common sense. I like the phrase "Maybe, but I was just preoccupied... I was a bit absent-minded as I had a few things to think about, I suppose." Really???????
http://recombu.com/cars/articles/news/woman-blindly-follows-satnav-through-six-countries
Great to return today and see everyone arriving without coats etc. However, not to be so much of a pessimist, I have heard that we won't see the sun in the same way for awhile. Glad we all had the opportunity to enjoy it even for such a short space of time.
Today was a real mixed bag of emotions, it was great to come back, to hear the chatter of the children, to see them relaxing and enjoying the sun at play times, but sadly the day didn't end on a good note. The magnificent 7 were in good form during their lesson which we spent looking at timetables and being able to work out time differences. I was really pleased with the whole session. The rest of the day was spent completing paperwork and trying to sort out developing issues.
The end of the day came very quickly and I suppose it is one I would like to forget quickly, but in all honesty it is a side of the job no one likes or should tolerate. The less said the better but tolerance, respect and manners when you are trying to do the best for everyone seems to be forgotten all to easily.
Last update, very quickly, it was great to hear the boys football team with another positive result again tonight. A 2 - 2 draw against Hobmoor means that in the league we are still undefeated. In other football news, if you don't follow the school on Twitter, we have just become the All Birmingham Futsal Champions as well as the All Birmingham Years 4 and 5 Champions. They really are a super talented group of children. proud of everyone of you. You make my job worthwhile!!!!
You can tell I write the blog in different steps. What follows was written before the end of the day and therefore seems upbeat. I try to ensure the whole blog feels ultra positive tomorrow.
I have had a recent rise again from our friends in Poland and other countries. Alot of these requests have been to do with blogging and which platform I have been using. I don't want to turn this blog into a geekfest so if you want questions answered in relation to individual queries then you will find my email address at the top of the blog or you can email [email protected] and I will get back to you as quickly as possible with as much i
Finally today an article I stumbled across, surely highlighting the dangers of relying on technology and not using common sense. I like the phrase "Maybe, but I was just preoccupied... I was a bit absent-minded as I had a few things to think about, I suppose." Really???????
http://recombu.com/cars/articles/news/woman-blindly-follows-satnav-through-six-countries