I went to my previous school tonight to bid the staff and building a fond farewell, as today they educated a child for the very last time. As of September, it is no longer an educational establishment.
It was a strange event, different emotions were running throughout. There were happy feelings at seeing people I worked with (it was only 18 months ago, but already it feels like a lifetime), but at the same time there were sad feelings that that great building would no longer ring to the sound of children's laughter, children chanting tables, or working, singing, acting and all sorts of other things.
I did get time to speak to several of the staff who I had the good fortune to work with - the staff who helped me to rediscover my love of teaching after a terrible time at another school before - and was shocked to hear that the council had done exactly what I feared they would. They didn't promise a job for staff, and (good to their word) they haven't. I was appalled that a council could treat it's employee's like that.
So, I'm now going to keep a look out for any jobs for a couple of them - see if anythng is going at my school in the near future in particular, and I hope to keep in better touch with them.
I raise my glass to Douglas - a school like no other. You made me enjoy teaching again, and for that you will always be remembered. And to the staff who stayed to the end - you are the best. I feel honoured to have worked with you.
Douglas Primary School. 1883 - 2008
