Giving all security is gutsey to be sure Thomas. Even English Teacher had a back up plan in case things didn't work out. However, with your positive attitude, I'm sure you will do just fine. ;-)
Don't count on having textbooks to fall back on. I don't know about other schools, but mine doesn't have them. I've been scanning pretty diagrams out of my American textbooks to spiff up my powerpoints a bit.
Remember, it gets easier in definate stages over here. You make the mile markers and the kids come to trust you a bit, then it gets easier.
You'll do fine. Good luck.
Meli |
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Of course the back up plan is simply to come back to America if things don't work out. Hopefully I will progress in the other direction though.
I am a bit worried about Dagenham itself. I've been told it can be a pretty intimidating place.
Things will just be on hold here until I can get a feel for it all I suppose. Everything is in storage and dealt with. Plenty of family and friends if needed.
I've promised myself I will give it till Christmas even if I'm "bleeding"..
Anyone know any more about the borough?? Perhaps something positive???
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'Meli,'
'English teacher' is capable of talking about herself/her 'back-up plans'/etc, if she wishes.
Agreeing with something someone posts here is one thing -- discussing another person is far different, especially unsolicited comments (no one had even asked if I had back-up plans, and if they had, it would be up to ME to answer, and no one else). Let's stick with the basics of conversational etiquette which have made this forum and comfortable place for everyone.
Thank you. |
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Thomas,
Give it the year -- if you tell yourself it's only 'til Christmas, it'll be too easy to quit. It's a tough job, and will take a year to go through all aspects and come out the other side able to make a fair judgement. (When do you start, anyway? I don't think I noticed a start date.)
I don't remember any such 'back-up plan' as is discussed, but I guess the only choice would have been going back to the States and look for a job. Like you, my child is grown and on her own, so it's just me. I just decided to start a whole new chapter of my life over here. I personally think that 'our' type fares better -- the ones that have everything stored away, ready to go home if it doesn't work, might not put as much effort into it, knowing they have an 'out.' I don't. No job to go back to, no home, no car, nothing. And so because of that, I've worked really hard and not given up (even when I really wanted to!).
Not sure if you've been reading my blog, but it covers everything -- people say it can be inspiring and motivating, as well as informative. (I really need to get back at it! Been slacking off since the end of the school year.) Anyway, catch up on it and I hope it helps.
Make the year, and you'll be fine the next year. Best of luck in your position! You'll do fine! |
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I can't deny that the uncertainty I have created in my life is a little unerving.
I sold off the car today. I just have some personal belongings in a storage unit. I gave up my place a month ago. There's really nothing left to do but go. My start date has always been, "as soon as you can get here". I was offered the job in August so no contract here in the States. As everyone knows, I waited a month for the permit. They have a substitute covering for me until I arrive. Should there be a problem, they have arranged for me a work permit that is valid throughout the LEA. If I must supply teach until next term, I have agreed to do so.
I tell myself Christmas to ease my fears. In my heart of hearts though, I aim to achieve QTS during the next two years and stay for at least ten.
Call me crazy...
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