Geographical Association

August/September 2006

Well, where do I start? Some background information about me seems a good place. My name is Alexandra Paul and I am 22. I was born and educated in Cornwall and have always been keen to remain here.

After my GCSEs I studied the International Baccalaureate, an alternative to A-Levels. The IB enabled me to study six subjects which I felt would be a strong base for primary teaching. I have been interested in a career in primary school teaching since work experience at secondary school and geography has always been a particular interest.

I have just completed a four year Initial Teacher Education degree course with a specialism in Geography at the University of the West of England (UWE) in Bristol. I am now anxiously awaiting my results (fingers crossed!) I have really enjoyed living and studying in Bristol, however I want to begin my career in Cornwall.

The four year degree course has provided opportunities for many varied teaching placements, for example, in inner city schools and rural schools on the outskirts of Bristol. There was a strong geography input in every year of the degree, building up my own subject knowledge as well as my ability to teach and potentially coordinate the subject.

Since completing my course in May I have been lucky enough to obtain supply teaching at a number of local schools which I have really enjoyed and which has boosted my confidence immensely. I now feel I am ready to begin my teaching career. I am excited but also scared!

After so many applications I lost count and four interviews I am pleased to say I have a job for September! I will be teaching a class of 15 Year 4 pupils in an independent prep school in Truro. It is a temporary position for one year but I will be able to complete my NQT induction year and use my geography specialism, as the teacher I am covering for is the geography coordinator. The school is particularly well known for its extra-curricular activities and sports facilities so I will be looking forward to extending my sporting and coaching abilities. It was discussed at interview that I should run an environmental club at lunchtime or after school - I'll let you know how that goes!

It is with butterflies in my stomach that I complete this brief introduction to myself. Although I am nervous, I am really looking forward to this first year: my first parents' evening, assemblies, the Christmas play, sports day, report writing, school trips etc. I hope to share the highs and the lows and give you an insight into my NQT year!


October 2006

I cannot believe it's half term already! Where has the time gone?

I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of my first half term of teaching. There have been moments of doubt but they have by far been outnumbered by the positives! Every day is a paper chase, but I am getting used to that now. Both staff and children have made my first few weeks of teaching run very smoothly. The children have been polite and respectful and the informal help given by other members of staff has been invaluable. The head, my mentor and my parallel form teacher have all been a super help and very supportive.

We are now knee-deep in the Anglo-Saxons, improving our local environment and learning all the times tables!

I have successfully planned and undertaken my first out-of-school visit to the recycling centre - 31 children on the bus, 31 children off the bus, 31 children into recycling centre, 31 children watching machines separate plastics and cans, 31 children here, 31 children there, 31 children back on the bus, 31 children back to school! Phew!

Having had an interactive whiteboard in all classrooms whilst on teaching practice it has been a bit of a shock to the system not having one now. However, slowly but surely I am getting used to it, am learning to use the OHP and have been surprised at my ability to create my own 'interactive' resources!

I honestly never knew it was possible to be so tired! The work/life balance, discussed constantly during teacher training is feeling a little top heavy at present - but hopefully that will improve next half term! On top of everything, my boyfriend and I are buying a house and have been dealing with estate agents and solicitors and trying to choose carpets, paints and furniture!

Now reports and parents evenings are beckoning.

But first I need to catch up on some sleep.


December 2006

Merry Christmas!

I have been showered with gifts from the children in my class and Christmas cards are covering my desk!

I am really looking forward to the Christmas holidays. I have loved every minute of my first term as a 'proper' teacher but it has been long, tiring and challenging!

The paper work is beginning to come under control. My 'to do' list, however, is still never ending but I have resigned myself to never getting to the end of the list!

The end of term brought with it a whirlwind of carol services, celebration assemblies, end of term assessments, reports, the staff party and Christmas lunch!

My first attempt at parents evening and report writing was very successful, despite the last minute panic! Doing well in my NQT assessment put a big smile on my face and was a great end to the term.

Now I am planning to RELAX, recover, enjoy the Christmas holidays, enjoy my new house and not think about work (too much).


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