I have been a form teacher of a primary 3 class since 09/01/07. It was a sudden and unexpected change. Stress just starts to build up, working from 7 till 6 plus everyday, juggling between english, maths and science. Coarse throat, lesson plans, peer pressure, added assignments, notice board decorations, work markings, remedials, ECAs, meetings. It's crazy how they can think of making an inexperienced and untrained teacher as a form teacher, directly affecting the lives of 33 children. My biggest fear is that i can't teach them properly and affect their one year of study and i believe the fear is becoming reality.
Another colleague in the school, also a contract teacher like me waiting for NIE and also a form teacher has just decided to quit the service. She will tender in her one month notice resignation tomorrow. It's no surprise really as i've seen her looking more haggard with each passing day. The tremendous workload and responsibility can dampen anyone's passion especially when one don't have the skills to teach properly. I don't know what MOE is thinking, if they expect an untrained teacher to teach properly as a form teacher then what the hell is NIE for. What does the 2 years in NIE equip you with if inexperienced teachers are allowed to teach. I feel that i'm letting my class down, they deserve a true professional not someone who has never learnt anything about teaching.
4 comments:
dude,
I strongly believe that if u truly have the passion and really like wat u are doing, nothing is a 'chore'. I'm sure it can only get better since its the first week of school and things are not settled down yet. Give urself and the students more time and see wat happens. Don't worry about not performing up to expectations, someone has to start somewhere at some point right? dun get influenced by the quitter, hit the gym to reduce stress & i'm sure things will look up in due time..hang in there bro..
btw when i'm free i'll write an entry too.. u guys are gonna enjoy my experiences man.. kinda hectic week for me too..
i think can write a book bout it..
alonso
Mr Teh,
I agree that the MOE system does not seem to make much sense. But hang in there and give it your best shot - as Alonso said - things will become easier over time and I'm sure you'll get your due reward - NIE. I think the quitter made a right decision on his/her part, teaching isn't for quitters. You just have to be sure if this is what you want, and riding out this experience could give you the answer.
Relieve stress by kicking ass in soccer/ bball !!
Brudder,
I've got lots of teacher friends and I'm proud of having you as one too! Relax, like what has been said, if you're passionate enough you'll hang on. Have a clear direction in what you hope to achieve and what you want out of the kids and go on from there.Kids nowadays can be a headache but if they see you as someone whom they can talk about pokemon and stuff, they'll listen to you! Have to agree with MOE about the system. It's like sending soldiers to war without going to BMT.. geez, it's difficult especially when you have no experience with kids. Even with experience, the workload kinda crap. Also dun undderstand why they like to overtax the teachers. How'd you expect them to nurture the kids.. soon enough both kids and teachers become cynical and disillusioned people. That's sad.. Well, bro, we're always here for you. Things may be hard, but fight on! Gambatte!
- from a fallen comrade (haha.. they didn't even give me an interview da teh..after a heartfelt appeal)
Just go there and try your best. If you really like it, you will go and do it even with its kangtao.
My point is its not about being quitters, its about finding where your passion is.
Just try yr best! I believe you can do it!
Blackburn
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