Day One

Happy Thursday everyone! Today was our first of three teacher days. This AM I took the train to the next station, walked about a block and then went to Margaret's house. We took her boys to daycare adn then went on to school. This AM started with coffee in the workroom and then an opening meeting where the teachers were given congrats about test scores. The scores were so good that we were given an extra half day off. That means that fall break will start at noon and not the end of the day! Woo hoo! Student's here take three different tests in what would be our high school. AT the end of the fifth year, there is a test called GCSE. Student's only take the test in subjects that they choose to study. Students can leave school after this. Those who want to go to university take a two year programme called A Levels. Most students would only take three A level classes. These classes would have something to do with what they hope to study in university. At the end of the first year there are exams called AS levels. Students continue on to take their A Level exams at the end of their second "sixth form" year. Grades from these exams are what helps them to get into college. I am teaching students from form 1 (age 11) to second sixth form (age 18).
This afternoon we had lunch in an old primary school turned cafe. Very yummy! The school also breaks daily for 15 minutes for snack or tea. STudents and teachers both have this time. This afternoon there was a meeting about assembly which students attend at least twice a week. During this time there is a topic, as well as a hymm etc. Tomorrow we're in for more meetings and then time to work in our rooms.
hugs,
dm and ee