Trainee teacher parents

[MercuryRising]

I was just wondering how you are all doing? I finished my placement last Friday (which I loved), but now we are back in lectures I feel a bit fed up. I feel drained and emotional. Is anybody else feeling the same? It doesn't help that we have a masters module to complete by January

Wow have you finished yours already? We are in until the end of term - plus masters module due 1st week of January, I'm thinking Christmas might be a bit challenging! I am loving placement but struggling to get everything done, have largely given up sleep or seeing the kids, which worries me a bit for main placement. How are your children coping?

We did a four week context based learning placement during the first half term and a three week placement this half term. Im on a SCITT so it may be slightly different.

I loved being in school but I'm not enjoying trying to write my Masters assignment.

My dcs have been going to breakfast club and after school club and have adapted really well. I was a sahm for 7 years so though they would find it a lot harder. How are your dc coping? Its getting easier as I get more organised but I understand what you are saying about feeling like you never see the dcs. I can't wait to get to the holidays and make up for that

Ooh, can I ask how you are finding it? I am considering starting a pgce next year when the DDs will be in Y2 and reception. I don't know whether to put it off for another year though, and wait until DD2 is in Y1.

Can I also find out how you are finding it all?
Currently in process of applying for a SCITT for 2014. I am thinking it is 38 weeks of no life outside of the course from talking to the hub school!?

Dd is in Y1 and ds is Y3. Like you I toyed with starting a year ago but wanted to make sure dd had settled into school before I started. Luckily both dcs have settled into breakfast and afterschool club well, although I do worry it is a long day for them. I have had to adjust to having less time available to make sure they get their reading and homework done.
When Im on placement the weeks are manic but when Im in the centre I finish by four which is fine. The biggest adjustment for me is the level of organisation to make sure I get everything done on time.

Despite the tiredness and moments of stress and panic I am loving the course and have met some great people - both adults and children.

If you know teacher training is what you really want to do go for it. It is hard work but great fun and worth it!

Thanks for the advice, good to hear you are enjoying it! It's something I've wanted to do for a long time but don't want to take on more than I'll be able to handle or disrupt the kids too much- DD2 is summer born and will be only just 4 when she starts reception next year, so maybe waiting another year is sensible. I'm just worried I'll be too old- at this rate I'll be a 40 year old NQT!

Good luck with the course

I know what you mean about dd mine is August born which was the reason I delayed another year. I wouldn't worry about being 40. A lot of people on my course are in their 30s and there are a few over 50. I don't think maturity is a disadvantage.

Don't worry about being a 40 yr old NQT I will be 44, and am one of many in the 35 - 50 age group on my course. I'mthe only one my age specialising in reception and KS1 but it doesn't seem to have been a disadvantage so far . Though I do worry I will find the pace hard with 3 children and a partner who works away come main placement.
You will have no life for a year and neither will your children - after school activities, play dates and weekend trips have all stopped, my middle child is really finding it hard but the other 2 seem fine.
Definitely go for it if you think it is what you want to do - but do be prepared for a roller coaster. Good luck.