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The staffroom

Whether you're a permanent teacher, supply teacher or student teacher, you'll find others in the same situation on our Staffroom forum.

Original poster

Job dilemma, advice welcomed!

13 replies

PencilPotsAndGlue · 14/07/2018 13:24

I'm not in England, so application processes are a bit different- you apply to the LA and they divide you out.

Pros for the school I've been allocated:

  • HT has a really good reputation, she seemed lovely when I visited
  • the teaching staff are apparently known for being a really good bunch, also seemed lovely
  • commute would be half of what I'm currently doing

Cons

  • notorious catchment area
  • when I met the HT she went into quite a bit of detail about the challenges
  • I have no experience of teaching in a challenging school, tbh behaviour management has never been something I've needed to work on Blush
  • staff did mention how difficult it was too
  • they won't be able to classify until the first day back, apparently the roll fluctuates too much over the summer, so I can't even get prepared

WWYD? I honestly don't know, so please advise me.

OP posts:
RB68 · 14/07/2018 13:28

I would look at the learning opportunities, being able to work in a tight close team and getting satisfaction of being a good teacher with kids that really need the support. I would go for it.

Keeptrudging · 14/07/2018 13:32

I'd go for it. I loved teaching in a challenging school, the pupils were really open and generally lovely. Many of them had really tricky home lives, it was our job to make school as caring and welcoming as possible. You get a lot back, it's really rewarding when you see pupils progress despite adversity. Staff work closely together and support each other as it can be tough.

Original poster
PencilPotsAndGlue · 14/07/2018 13:35

Thank you. It does seem better from that perspective.

OP posts:
RandomMess · 14/07/2018 13:52

I have teacher friends that work in schools with a catchment similar to the one you describe, they all sat they couldn't go back to schools in "middle class" areas!

Good head and supportive colleagues so much more important!

grumpypug · 14/07/2018 13:52

I work in a very challenging school. I love it. It's hard work and I spend loads of time on safeguarding issues and with parents, working on 'home issues' but most of them appreciate the support - although rarely show it. It was a massive learning curve on the beginning. Big behaviour issues but with the right support it's doable (and enjoyable). Give it a go, I say!

Keeptrudging · 14/07/2018 13:54

It depends what drives you as a teacher too. If you really enjoying teaching 'top set' pupils and seeing high-quality, well-presented work, this may not be for you. If you've found yourself drawn to the pupils who need more support, who may take longer to get on-side (but it feels great when you do), if you love the pastoral side, it would be a good fit.

Original poster
PencilPotsAndGlue · 14/07/2018 13:57

Being perfectly honest, I've rarely encountered a real pastoral issue apart from the odd playground spat (and nothing serious at that).

I do enjoy the actual teaching aspect but hopefully that will still be there.

OP posts:
Original poster
PencilPotsAndGlue · 14/07/2018 13:58

It was a massive learning curve on the beginning

Do you have any advice about getting through it?

OP posts:
Appuskidu · 14/07/2018 14:05

they won't be able to classify until the first day back

What does that mean?

I taught in a very challenging area for many years-kids were great, staff were great and the heads there were mostly great (4 whilst I was there) but the last one was a total bitch which made things pretty awful. If you liked the head though, it will probably be ok.

Do you get no control over the school you are allocated-I can’t imagine how that works?

Original poster
PencilPotsAndGlue · 14/07/2018 14:11

The numbers go up and down so much that they can't sort out the class groups until the first day back.

No, no control. Open advert for the LA.

OP posts:
Appuskidu · 14/07/2018 14:45

Are you in Scotland?

So, if there was a school that you really wanted to work at for various reasons, you would never be able to see any of their vacancies or apply directly there?

Apple23 · 14/07/2018 15:05

I'd rather work in a "Challenging" school. It sounds like the head and staff have been very honest with you.

The difficult bits may be harder, but the good bits will be amazing - and the successes won't always be in the attainment data. Make use of your mentor and make sure you know what systems are in place for managing behaviour, working with parents etc.

Even if you hate it and don't stay, you will learn so much that will help you wherever you go to in the future, even if that is not in teaching.

RideSallyRide76 · 17/07/2018 23:00

Working in a challenging school with a good staff team sounds like an amazing learning opportunity. I've spent most of my career in the toughest areas of the UK, it's hard but I love it. You get a real sense of accomplishment when you see your charges progress and grow. The families often have Amazing stories to tell and you'll never be bored. Go for it!!

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