Teachers pose questions to our support team

Here's what we've been asked recently

By Sally Baker : 28 May 2009

It's easy to do. Visit the Ask A Question section of the website here and fill in some simple details, including your question.

You'll be automatically shown five factsheets from our online InfoCentre based on key words in your question. If you'd still like to know more, just click ‘Submit' to send it to one of our Online Support team and receive a personal response.

Here are some questions we've been asked recently:

Question:

I've been struggling to manage the planning and teaching of a range of mixed classes this year and I'm currently off work with stress. Management at the school don't share my view that my workload is impossible to manage and I haven't been able to get any help. Have you got any suggestions?

Answer:

Coping with all the different demands on your time can be tricky to manage and workload is a particularly difficult area. Start by taking a step back and assessing the work that needs to be done, if at all possible you could ask a colleague to help you assess and get a fresh pair of eyes to look at the issues you are facing.

Write down all the tasks you need to do on a regular basis, i.e. daily, weekly, monthly along with the time you have available to see if it's possible to fit it all in. You should always remember to factor in time for yourself, not just work, and strike a good work-life balance. If you find that the workload just isn't working for you then you can take this plan to illustrate your concerns to management and go from there.

You might also find our coaching programmes on Work-Life Balance or Work Related Issues useful. Your coach will support you and work closely with you to think about how you can manage your time or approach management with any issues.

You may also find these factsheets from our InfoCentre useful:

Question:

I am currently away on maternity leave and there is an acting principal teacher post available when I return to work later this year. The problem is that I've applied for this type of post before but was not successful. I'd like to apply when I return to work but I'm worried about preparation and how to get through an interview. Can you help?

Answer:

It's a daunting prospect to return to work following maternity leave and it's fantastic that you are already looking to apply for positions that may further your career. It's also good that you realise preparation is essential to secure that post.

If you have applied for similar positions before then think about the questions you've been asked at interview and also take a good look at the job specification to give you ideas on what you may be asked.

Check out our practical guide on finding the right job for lots of tips and ideas on the application and interview process.

We can support you in preparing for your interview with support and interview techniques. Our advisors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us on 08000 562 561 (England), 0800 564 2270 (Scotland) or 08000 855 088 (Wales).

You might also find the following factsheets useful:






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