The new term has barely begun and already we’ve heard tales of primary staffrooms full of teachers in tears. The pressure of planning for another 45 minutes to an hour of new material every day to meet the demands of the government’s numeracy strategy can feel like too much, even for some of the most enthusiastic and positive-thinking teachers.
And, on top of that, there’s a whole range of other initiatives either demanded or offered, from home-school contracts to innovative literacy resources.
It may not be much of a consolation now, but in a few years it will all seem familiar and natural. You will have adapted the literacy and numeracy strategies to your own style and the needs of your pupils, and feel happier and more confident.
One good idea comes from Sheila Dainton of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers: if you’re feeling hard-pressed, draw up a grid and, for a week or two, record how you spent your time outside teaching and make note of the pressure points. Then submit it as evidence to your professional association.
Only do what is absolutely necessary at first, and add to it later. And have a look at Ted Wragg’s numeracy lesson tips on page 44. They offer a bit of wisdom, some practical ideas and a few much-needed laughs.
Diane Hofkins, Editor, TES Primary
