Worn out teachers

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Home : 2001 : March : 22

Worn out teachers
By GC

I have been teaching in an inner city school in an area where there was a lot of terrorist and paramilitary activity. I have been in the school for twentyseven years. When I read your letter I could see what has happened
to a lot of my colleagues, but for me one sentence stood out. You can see that you are making a difference. People often ask me why I have not changed to a "good" school and that is my answer. I can see where I am making a difference. In a good school the children learn anyway. In a challenging school they learn because of you.
Three years ago our staff went on a self esteem course run

by a very dynamic woman. She has helped to change my attitude and that of some of my colleagues. When someone asks how you feel in the morning,try saying "great" or "fantastic". Very often schools can be full of moaners. If you get into a moaning routine it brings you down and if it keeps on it can affect your energy levels and your health. If other people start to moan to you, change the subject. Seek out positive people who are coping and learn from them. Get someone to teach you a relaxation technique which can be done in 5mins and DO IT. Learn to say no nicely if you are given more to do. "I'd love to be able to help but I can't manage just at the moment."
Play music to calm the children before work. There are some good relaxing CDs made in Canada which I use.They start each track with the sound of water and birdsong. If you find it hard to get children to settle to work for long periods, try some brain gym activity for 5mins and they will be ready to start again. Eg marching on the spot, alternate elbow to knee, roll hands round and back,down low and up high, in front, behind etc. Sorry this is so long, but I hope there is something in it to help you until you find your feet. Make sure you keep a social life and NOT with teachers. Good luck whatever you do. GC