I am an NQT in a twice-over "outstanding in every area" secondary school. I was given a 1 year contract that I am half way through. I was recently told that I wasn't being made permanent but instead needed to reapply for my position - another 1 year contract. I have done really well in every observation etc and my HoD specifically requested I reapply. Interview day came and I put up with being given a visitor's badge and being taken on a tour of the school etc. Taught a great lesson then went to interview. I thought my interview went well although in hindsight I probably gave a similar interview as to the first time I applied.
Outcome was I didn't get the job. Department is shocked, HoD said it was very close but the decision had to be made between himself the 2 SLT s and the head and he had to go with the majority. Feedback is that the other candidate was more ambitious - fair enough. I focussed more on learning and the progress of my students as currently there is nowhere for me to aim for in the department (TLRs for everything!)
The 2 SLT s are based within my dept and neither have mentioned anything since, I have pretty much gone into hiding. The school quote a line from their ofsted report about how they look after their staff and it has left me very bitter. Even a "thankyou for applying, you must be very disappointed, let us know if there is anything we can help with with your job applications" would have made me feel better. Instead I have had 2 learning walks with a "hello miss".
It's eating me up - I am so desperate to say something. I know I'll come across as bitter though and I should just put my energy into finding a job for September :(