Saturday 18 June 2016

Where does the time go!

Wow, I hadn't realised it had been so long since last posting! This year has seen so many changes in terms of the new A-Levels, new GCSEs and the potential for 'life after levels'. My only hope is that whatever happens politically someone stops and says perhaps teachers (and students and their parents) have had enough upheaval in recent years and leave education alone!

Anyhow, that brings me on to my posting now. I am preparing for our exciting new History course, I think the students will love the options we have gone for. There are some wonderful options being offered by the exam boards including my favourite Crime and Punishment. I've found myself re-visiting sites, books and topics that I used for my undergraduate degree in particular the proceedings at The Old Bailey. The only danger is it is so easy to lose yourself following cases, readings and crime stats! But, a thoroughly fascinating way to lose a few hours nonetheless.

This term has also seen exciting planning with regards to one of my other areas of interest WomenEd we had a fantastic regional training session earlier in the year where the direction and next steps were thoroughly discussed. There have been tea parties to celebrate the first birthday, regional meets, publications and planning has already begun for the next unconference in October. It has been so exciting and rewarding to be part of this. Not only have I had the chance to meet and work with some incredible and inspiring women but it has given me a renewed energy and confidence.

So the next big step will be exam results day, with the sheer hard work and effort that young people have been putting in I just hope that certain newspapers refrain from their usual 'exams the easiest they have ever been' style headlines. It only serves to belittle the achievements of students and to upset those who haven't got the grades they hoped for. So as this academic year prepares to enter its final few weeks I hope everyone is where they want to be!