I have began a new long term role as a long term supply teacher at a new school. I was asked to cover a class in this particular school as their class teacher, because their "previous" teacher has been 'promoted" to do coaching across the linked schools that are part of the academy chain. I assumed I would come in on day one and have my new class.
However, the previous teacher hasn't yet begun her coaching timetable and still teaches "my new class". She says she will teach the English as she started the unit and might as well continue. She says she will teach the next few weeks of spelling as she started the unit, and gives me other lessons to teach. We share out the teaching during the day, however she decides! She then stays in the classroom, whilst I am teaching! When she is teaching, I am basically working with groups as a TA, doing photocopying etc!
She has admitted to me that whilst she waits to be designated coaching at this school and other schools in the academy chain, she doesn't want to be asked to do PPA cover etc, or be used for other duties, so is staying in class with me to look busy! The children are confused thinking I am their new teacher, but their old teacher is still there!
Now here is the dilemma - I am being paid very well, above my pay scale in fact on a really good daily rate. I am reluctant to give up this great daily pay. I have less marking and workload because she is marking the lessons she teaches, and preparing them, and dealing with the class still. It is like this class has two teachers. When either of us are teaching, the other can photocopy, do some planning etc, and get ahead. However, the kids are confused as I go from working with groups and individuals to teaching the class. Do I say nothing, put up with "being a TA" at times, only running the class when she wants me to, but make the most of having a far less workload than if I was on my own or say something and tell them I should be the teacher in charge as agreed?
If I go to the Head and say that I didn't sign up for being a TA for half the week, it will upset the teacher I am working with, and suddenly I would have the class all day every day and the huge workload that comes with it. On the other hand, I can't get a grip of my new class, as the previous teacher is still there calling the shots. A dream to have two teachers for the same class, sharing the workload for a brilliant daily supply rate or a nightmare? I am really not sure!