An update…

The class numbers have increased again!! While it was one of my main goals this term and last, I am beginning to freak out a little with the numbers this term. We had record numbers of 19 students last Thursday… I did say I was coming out here for a challenge! An increasing number of them have been to school more this year than they have in their whole schooling life. So you can imagine where their literacy and numeracy skills are at!!

Some of them are unable to complete the alphabet! Behaviour is a major classroom focus (in fact it seems to be rare that I remember anything else from the day!!).

Below is T.J...

We average about 16 students a day at the moment the preparation for this is hard going. Practicals are a nightmare, but I am persisting! We have managed to produce some fine fashion bags this term. Surprisingly, it has been the boys that have wanted after school classes and have wanted to make more than one bag for their nannas (how sweet!).

Food Tech practicals are also a nightmare… The key now, I think, is to have plenty of veggies to prepare. Lots and lots of cutting to keep them occupied! They do enjoy the food lessons and must be taking heed of what I say, as they hide their meat pies as I walk past at lunch time these days!!

‘Baby steps’ I keep telling myself. I have huge fears that I am not doing these kids justice as a teacher, but have seen changes in these beautiful kids already, so I am not giving up yet!