Tonight, in many homes around the county, uniforms will be laid out, pencil cases checked, bags packed and children will be climbing into bed for an early night, to ensure they are ready for the morning. In other homes, pretty much the same process will be taking place, minus the uniform but with the addition of checking lesson plans and resources are ready...teachers find the first day of term daunting too!
Here at EKT we have the added luxury of not starting until 3.30 tomorrow, so we have a little more wriggle room but for me personally, preparations include decanting all my resources into my new 'schoolroom'. The students watched its construction throughout December but haven't yet seen the finished article. As well as providing a lovely, bright study area for the students, it will be my own study area, as the Master's study continues, a space for books, music and contemplating while I watch the birds and the trees outside.
It hadn't occurred to me how uncomfortable my study conditions have been until I started planning the conservatory back in May last year. As an adult, I manage to study wherever I happen to be but it isn't always easy. We need to remember that when we expect our children to get on with their homework. They need peace and quiet, good lighting and relevant resources around. we need to prepare for study, both practically and emotionally. Children can't work well when they are overtired, or hungry or over stimulated. Our part is to ensure they have the environment they need. Now I get that building a conservatory is a bit of a radical response but we can all ensure the children have a drink and a snack, a space on the table to work in and no TV/ radio blaring in the background.
Now, as we all get ready for the new term ahead, I'd like to wish you all a Happy New year and happy studying.
