Two Weeks after the “Phone call which changed everything”

They say life has its twists, turns, and setbacks; and it can certainly throw up a few surprises.

The last two weeks have been one wild ride, as I’ve embarked on my first full-time contract teaching position for the duration of Term 1, 2011.

100_4759Michael Graffin (2010)


An “Interesting” Start

To the lady who left a comment on my last post, saying that she was “praying for a phone call” like mine; may I suggest you fervently pray that it doesn’t come on the first day of school!

Blissfully preparing for another year of relief (substitute) teaching, I received my first contract teaching appointment at 8.55AM on Day 1, Term 1 ….          I literally threw my laptop and relief supplies into my bag, and arrived less than 1 1/2 hours later … without lunch!

I’d never dreamt that this experience would define my entry into full-time teaching, and I’m extremely grateful to my mentor and Admin for their ongoing support over these challenging few weeks. And let us not forget those wonderful canteen ladies who fed the hungry, shell-shocked teacher on his first day!


First Impressions

I’m working at a small metropolitan school in the Fremantle district, with around 260 students (K-7). Having become accustomed to relief teaching in schools with 600 – 800 students, my new school’s small student population came as somewhat of a shock. It still feels strange doing Lunch duty on the Oval – supervising a “mere” 40 students!

As I transition into a new specialist/support teaching role, I’m looking forward to two months to live, teach, learn and reflect. I’m been welcomed into a supportive school community, and I’m under the guidance of an honest and very experienced mentor. I have no idea what my future holds, but I believe this particular situation is a once in-a-lifetime opportunity – and I’ll be making the most of it.


The Future of A Relief Teacher’s Journey

A Relief Teacher’s Journey is here to stay. I’ve decided not to change the name of my blog or start a new one, as I’m comfortable with its focus, direction, and themes.

For the time being, I’ll complete the “Kick Start Your Blogging Challenge”, and return to my blogging reflections on my 2010 teaching experiences; with a particular emphasis on my work teaching Sport, Science, Health, and Art in Term 4 last year.

I’m going to need some time to put my recent and ongoing experiences into perspective, and I’ll reflect and blog about them in due course.


Something Different!

Tomorrow afternoon, I’ll be attending the departure of the Queen Mary II from Fremantle, Western Australia. To celebrate her return, I’ve decided to publish some of my photos from her maiden visit last year – enjoy!

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7 responses

  1. Hooray – Welcome to the world of teaching…your crazy, hectic first days will be like many of the days you will face ahead…but the rewards are so many!!! Congrats and I'm so happy to see you post!

  2. Thankyou for your comments! Although I've had a hectic, and somewhat traumatic start; I believe this new support teaching position is a golden opportunity for me to learn & grow as a teacher. Its good to be back!

  3. Congratulations, Michael! I am so happy for you. What grades are you teaching? I teach second and would love to help in any way I can. I have been teaching for 26 years here in the U.S. Good Luck!P.S.My daughter, Karen, did find an Australian class to correspond with already. Thanks for trying though. 🙂 Let me know if you need any advice in your new position. Have fun every day!

  4. Thankyou for all the messages of support and congratulations. It is a wonderful feeling to know that I am a member of a global education community which extends beyond the boundaries of my classrooms and physical school community. I have a good mentor, and a supportive PLN. Thankyou.

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