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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.

Gossiping/moaning

2 replies

GreenCloak · 03/09/2021 18:16

It’s day 2 of being back and I’m so fed up already. I’m a TA at a Primary, have only been there a year or so (with breaks for Covid lockdowns where I wasn’t required to work, so actually not that long). The majority of TAs there are constantly moaning about everything to do with the school, the teachers, the decisions made - you name it. They moan about each other all the time as well; I hear them talking about someone else or they make little snidey comments to me. I never engage with any of this but it is constant - the looks, the hushed conversations, the complaining. I know I’m talked about as well, and when I was given a new role over one of them I was given such a cold shoulder for a long time. They have all been there years and years so they have a lot of background, but so much of what they moan about with regards to the teachers and the Head is so petty. I love my job so much, love the kids etc. But just don’t feel I can carry on with this, I’m so drained. I feel if I say even the slightest thing wrong I will be the subject of the next moan session. Is this a common thing in schools, the “us vs them” scenario with TAs and teachers?! Anyone else been in a similar situation?

OP posts:
PumpkinPie2016 · 03/09/2021 21:34

Some people just love a good moan - doesn't matter what about, they'll find something. I have a team member like that and it is draining - I have to deal with it as a middle leader unfortunately.

In your shoes though, I think you are absolutely right not to engage. Don't get dragged in.

You like the job and the kids -they are the most important part of the job so that's good.

Do you get on with the class teacher you work with?

If so, I would focus on your classroom and the pupils you work with. Remain polite and professional with the other TAs but don't seek them out. Have lunch either with the teachers or in the classroom. Go out on the playground with the kids as much as you can.

It's unlikely they will change so I would avoid them as much as possible.

GreenCloak · 04/09/2021 07:34

Thank you, @PumpkinPie2016. Yes I get on with the teacher I work with. I have been trying to get on with job and avoid them (I spend my breaks doing odd jobs rather than staffroom, I walk away if I see some of them whispering together, I play with the kids at break/lunch instead of huddling with them) but it’s so constant. Even overhearing things/getting looks/hearing their huffs in staff meetings etc - it’s draining already! Will see how it goes I guess. Thank you for your advice

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