Preparing

Today is a day of preparation. I've walked the route I need to take to the train. I'll be ironing everything soon. And I'm looking up a description of the school I'll be going to. According to the official governmental report I'll be going here:

"This larger than average inner city primary school provides for a very diverse and multi-ethnic community with the great majority of pupils coming from non British backgrounds. The largest pupil groups are from Black African families and White, often Eastern European, countries. There are 150 refugees and asylum seekers and a much larger than average number of pupils whose first language is not English. The number of pupils eligible for free school meals is much higher than average and pupils join and leave the school much more frequently than usual. The number of pupils with speech, language or moderate learning difficulties, is significantly above average, as is the proportion who have a statement of special educational need. There are 11 pupils in the care of the local authority. The school has a designated provision for pupils with statements of special educational need for their autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). The school achieved the Healthy School status in 2005."

Hmmmm...all right. Let's see a bit more detail.

"The school works hard to support the diverse needs of the ever-changing school population. Parents appreciate the school's commitment to their children and the support they receive. One parent, reflecting the views of many, reported, 'My son is very happy in school which has a friendly, calm and positive atmosphere. His additional needs have been met with real care and consideration and I feel well supported as his parent.'"

That's good. Very good!

"Teaching and learning are satisfactory overall, and improving. Relationships are excellent, resulting in pupils behaving well and having positive attitudes."

That translates to: not as tough as it might have seemed at first.

"Pupils are polite, friendly and naturally inquisitive and clearly understand about healthy living and how to keep safe. Their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is good. Pupils show empathy for each other's differences and support each other well."

Gold, pure gold.

As I read on, the school report showed that the school has difficulties but that they're being handled well. The chief concern seemed to be with the consistency of teaching. That means, some teachers don't teach what/how they are supposed to.

Or, in other words, if I do my job, things should be fine.

(source: Ofsted)