To be so disquieted at the thought of my new job?

[Caff2]

I am a teacher, been working in the state sector for nine years. I have recently accepted a job at an independent prep school, very well regarded locally, and WAS looking forward to the new challenge and new year group very much.

However, a few issues have been raised, for example, I wasn't assertive enough at the "new parents'" evening and, just through local gossip, I "come from the state sector" like it's a bad thing.

I was really looking forward to the job, and I still am really, but I feel that there is negativity about my appointment and that I haven't done good "PR" on myself.

Are private school parents really going to judge me on the fact that I was a bit shy at a new parents' event?

Aibu to wonder if I've made the right move!

Thanks so much for responses. I have to do baby's bedtime, but will check back later.

So, all kids asleep.. I really appreciate the messages. I'm not worried about my teaching, just about the perceptions of who "I am" which suddenly seem to matter.

Of course people are going to gossip about their first impressions of you. If you teach their kids well that will speak for itself.

I think the only difference is that state school parents don't bother feeding back stuff unless its a big complaint. Loads if low level moaning and commenting if my state school is an example. Does that help? Parents have probably been muttering for years about you and your colleagues; you only know due to being at a private school!

'State sector'

Walk tall and proud. You've been under the sort of official scrutiny that private school teachers never experience. Remember - you can do their job, but many of them couldn't cope in a state school. And you've had much more in service training than they have.

Keep that thought in your mind over the next month. They're lucky to have you - as they'll soon find out when you've been in the classroom a few weeks.

She doesn't need to walk tall it's not as if she being disenfranchised and discriminated against
parents talk,some talk more inanely than others.thats how it goes.teachers discuss parents too
certainly the wags can stretch discussion on teacher dress sense, weight for few terms

Walking tall is believing in yourself and your right to be treated with respect sm, that's all. Rather than scuttling along the edges with an apologetic smile.

Hi, thanks all. I am practising being assertive with people like my mother in law also have wardrobe of posh clothes as supplied by my mother for my birthday.

I think it's just being new nerves.

Agree.walk tall,self belief.a lot of professional jobs are about front,look as if you belong
In a competitive market you secured a job based on skill,and interview
You're there for a purpose.dont sweat the wee stuff.focus on the job in hand

As the Head at my children's (State) Primary once said, 'We all went to University and got the same teaching qualification.'

You are no worse because you came from a state school, in fact, it's probably a better learning curve than going straight into the private sector.

Caf2, if you're not worried aout your teaching then really don't worry at all.

At the minute the parents haven't got anything else to judge you on. Once they realise you're a good teacher they won't care at all if you're a bit quiet at open evenings, etc.

A good teacher doesn't need to be like a effusive game show host T parents do
Just a competent,motivated teacher

Thanks, I'm feeling more positive about it. :)