Capabilty

[azafata2]

Hi

I am 60 and have taught at my school for almost 19 years. One and a half years ago a new Head came in and then of course the very inexperienced new SLT team some "known" already as friends. Very new inexperienced staff over promoted and overpaid. Behaviour has deteriorated so much and the standards in the school have dropped so much. So after a "learning walk" I was put on a support plan . My colleague, now 62 and been a the school 17 years also was put on a support plan. After two observations by the Deputy Head, I have now been put on formal Capability. Yes, I will be contacting the union but that is not the point. This is blatant ageism, we are expensive but so experienced. I am hearing this all the time. Why is this not being challenged more? Furious!

It is so, so wrong. How can your teaching become worse over time?

Like you say, ageism and they want to employ a cheaper ECT. All about the money and not the kids.

I'm 54 and work in a great primary but I know my head would jump for joy (inside) if I left. We're a very expensive staff, last teacher left 6 years ago. No one ever leaves.

I hope you can fight it.

Thank you so much for your kind words. Oh, I will fight this. I have a great relationship with the students, staff and parents and they don't know yet how far I will take this. It is a drip drip effect to make you lose your confidence. The good thing is my Head of Department could not believe it. Been into my lessons many times. I will also be speaking to Governors some of whom I have known a very long time. Is it not awful though, as you said ECT , cheap but the lack of experience means behaviour really bad as they do not know how to deal with it, overpromoted so in situations they cannot handle. I am often the one picking up Head of Years problems as they do not know what to do. However how do we challenge this as a whole? Something needs to be done.

However how do we challenge this as a whole?

You mention the union, surely this is what they are for? Either within your school, or in your local area the union is surely your vehicle for collective organising?

It is sad but in this climate where budget is everything I think this culture will continue to thrive. It has been happening for years and I can not see a solution. Where corruption exists the reason on paper will always be 'something' other than what we all know to be the truth.

Has anybody ever actually managed to come through capability with their job (and mental health) intact?

Make sure you record EVERYTHING with dates, times etc.
They are absolute bastards, I know the head who took her life is hot topic but I’ve known two colleagues who did the same due to this. It’s disgraceful.

Just to update you. I have been signed off sick with stress. Had a massive panic attack the following day. I have a really good relationship with my students and other staff. That is the really hard bit. Have spoken to the union. Going to look through my pension and if I can "retire". I can supply after but still so angry. The union says happens daily to experienced teachers in my age bracket.

So unfair but at least you have a plan in place and are looking after your mental health. Sending hugs and support. Although you get on well with your colleagues perhaps keep your plans to yourself for now.

It's just so wrong.

Hope you're ok and you can enjoy your Easter break

If you have a decent local union branch (which union are you?) then they may be able to negotiate you a decent settlement to retire as well!

You can have a length, paid sick pay. They might prefer you being there, with your skills than paying sick pay and agency staff for 6 months. Give you time to have a good rest and decide if to fight?