Training week..

Although we knew what was on the schedule, I don’t think any of us could anticipate how beneficial the training week in Newland Park would be. The fresh-faced “UKLCers” arrived on Monday for a day of introductions, activities and workshops, and by the end of day 1, our brains had already taken a good beating (as well as our stomachs from the canteen – big up Paramjit our canteen angel). We stuck to the motto “nothing a wee wine (or 3) cant fix” and before day 2 had even begun, we were well on our way to forming life long friendships.

For the rest of the week a typical day pretty much followed the pattern of: eat, work, eat, work, eat, work, wine. Although it was a lot of work, there were a lot of laughs too.

Carolyn, Jenny and Raff certainly pulled out all the stops facilitating us all, and truly did a great job of making this week a positive challenge for everyone involved. We were able to learn from others, share and experiment with our existing knowledge and experiences, as well as cover things we had learnt and forgotten from our own TESOL courses. The thing I was most terrified about going into the week was being the least experienced person with the least knowledge and I would make a complete fool out of myself. I managed to do the latter naturally, however at no point was I made to feel stupid or uncomfortable by any of my tutors or peers, and if anything we were all able to take out of the experience more than what we put in. I have now come away from the training week with a better confidence to teach as well as loads of new tips and ideas. I feel better prepared to take the placement as it comes, and even embrace when I make mistakes because lets face it, it’s going to happen!

On Monday Carolyn asked us to write letters to our future selves to read at the end of the week.  Mine read “put into this week all you’ve got.. relax, stay positive and have fun!” And that’s exactly what I did.

The first group have already completed day 1 of their placement, and I’m so excited for them and to hear how they are getting on. Although some are slightly apprehensive, I’m sure the last week has equipped them with the knowledge and confidence to take on the challenge and I hope they will enjoy every minute they spend with their students.

I’m so so excited for the challenges that February holds for myself and the others on the 2^nd placement. I’m sure it will not disappoint. On the 4 week Countdown to Valencia!!