The School Day

Pre -Morning

It is the teacher's responsibility to plan and prepare lessons. You will be expected to arrive in school well before the pupils in order to make sure resources and classroom organisation are prepared ready for the class

Registration

Schools are legally required to complete an attendance register, which is usually carried out by the Form Teacher (Tutor) at the start of the morning and afternoon sessions. The school may use a computerised system or have special registration books. The administration staff will collate the information once marked by the teacher. Teachers record pupil attendance in each lesson, either electronically or in their mark books

Break times

Pupils are often allowed a break of 10 to 15 minutes during the morning and to a lesser degree the afternoon sessions. During these breaks the pupils are not taught. Practice varies from school to school in terms of what pupils are allowed/expected to do. In most schools pupils are in the recreational area or yard. In some schools they are free to have their breaks indoors in quiet areas or in gardens/enclosed areas where there is an alternative to the bustle of the school yard. Whatever arrangements are made the pupils must be supervised during this time and the teachers often share this responsibility, consequently you may be asked to take your turn. Teachers should be aware of school yard rules, activities and behaviour management strategies established in the school.

Midday break/Lunch break

Most secondary schools have a midday break, usually one hour, between 12 noon and 1.00 p.m., although this may vary. In larger schools these times may be staggered. During this break the pupils will have a midday meal, either one provided by the school, or a packed lunch brought from home. A minority of pupils go home for lunch. During this break the pupils will have an opportunity to be in the school yard, supervised by the midday/welfare staff.

Teachers are not required to undertake midday supervision and are allowed a break of reasonable length between school sessions.

Home Time/ Leaving school

Pupils must leave the school premises by 3.20 pm unless engaged in a school activity supervised by a member of staff. In most secondary schools part of your duties may be to supervise the pupils for a short period of time before going home.

Pre and after school care

Many schools have established pre and after school care for those children whose parents are working. These may include Breakfast Clubs or extended provision beyond the school day. However, it is rare for teachers to be involved in this provision.

After the end of the school day

Teachers are required to plan, prepare, set and mark work carried out by the pupils in their care. Once the children have left for the day, teachers will often spend time in school marking work, and preparing for the next day. They will also take the opportunity to liaise with other staff and parents.

Extra- Curricular Activities

Most secondary schools provide a range of extra-curricular activities out of school time, often at the end of the school day. These provide opportunities for the children to develop their sporting, musical, artistic and/or linguistic skills and talents. Such activities are usually organised and led by the teachers in the school on a voluntary basis, however, there is provision in the Teachers' Pay and Conditions for schools to pay extra for this commitment.

You may be expected to attend:

1. Weekly staff/curriculum meetings after school
2. At least two parents' meetings during the year to discuss pupils' progress
3. Other school events, for example, social events provided by the Parents Association
4. If you are teaching in a church school you may also be required to attend activities related to the religious foundation of the school
5. Speech night when awards are made

An example of a working day in a secondary school