My first days of work... Oouf!

Since I was little, I have always know that supply teaching is not an easy job because most of the students think: "Oh! Our teacher is not here today, so that it's 'free-time' day!" NO, IT'S NOT! Well, at least, not with me ;)

I was totally aware of what I was going into by coming here.  I knew that it was going to be challenging, especially at the beginning, but I didn't expect this level of exhaustion! OH MAAAAAAN!!!! I am tired hahahahah...

The night before the beginning of my carrier in the UK, I decided to straighten my hair because I wanted be presentable and not look like a mop... Well, at least not on my first day! I put myself pretty and went to bed. The morning came... I did whatever I had to do and left the house. As soon as I stepped outside... GUESS WHAT? It started pouring, pouring, and pouring. Just because it was my first day, I was given as a gift by whoever is up there a full-raining-hard day! I got to the school all soaked up! I had I raincoat, rain boots, and umbrella which didn't help me at all... and GUESS WHAT AGAIN? At the end, I did look like a MOP! Aarrg!!
Result: First impression = FAIL!

Because it was raining hard, the kids had to come in earlier. Therefore, I didn't get the chance to look a the lesson plans and get prepared. Obviously, I just went with the flow, improvised a lot, and didn't really know what I was doing hahahaha...  Kids are smart little creatures and adults usually underestimate them. They tested me, tested my knowledge, tested my limits... I got tested on everything that you can think of! And because I am 'only' a supply teacher, I had hard time controlling the class.  They weren't really listening.
Result: Classroom management = FAIL!

At the end of the day, I desperately told myself: "That's it... I performed so badly... This school would never call me back..." Then, at that moment, the Head Teacher came into the classroom and asked about my day. We had a little chat and, next thing you know, she praised me of doing a good job. She thought I did great and wanted me to go back the next day! Pouahahhahah...
Result: Further opportunities: SUCCESS!

The day after, I was teaching that same class again. The second day was totally different. I was a figure of authority to whom kids obey. I think once you have met the kids, have built a rapport with them, and have learned their little evil tricks, you can manage to get them trust and respect you... Even if you are a supply teacher!
Result: Thumbs up to supply teacher: SUCCESS!

I would like to thank all those who wished me luck and showed support :) XOX

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LINES OF THE DAY:

Grade 2 boy: " Miss L., are you a grownup?"
Me: " Hum... What do you think?"
Grade 2 boy: " NOoooo!"
Me (surprised): "Why not?"
Grade 2 boy (high-pitched voice): "Because you're funny!! hehe..."

This little boy is too cute! ;)