Trial Day for Long-Term Post...Tips?

[BustThePerp]

Just before students broke up for the holiday, I was contacted by my supply agency that a school would like me to come in 7 Jan. '09 for a "trial day" in Year 2 for a potential long-term post (the remainder of the 08-09 school year) for Year 4 or 5.

I have only done one other "trial day" and that was my second day of supply work ever. I was awful and felt like I messed up so much. The headmaster came in to observe the very first lesson of the day and the students were just not interested in the material.

Clearly I have lots of time to plan for this one. I'm certain work will be left for me to follow, but I would like to know if anyone has any suggestions or things to keep in mind for this upcoming day? I really want to make a good impression and I don't want to appear nervous.

Thanks in advance. (Hope everyone has a lovely holiday as well!!)

[jennyfleur]

This sounds like a bit of a difficult one! I have been for a few 'trial' days - 2 for nursery and 1 for Y1. The ones I have done have all been for the class the school wanted me to teach though. I was successful twice, so I must have been doing something right - but I didn't really do much planning! While I was there, I
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e a big effort to get familiar with the class routines and names/abilities asap, and support whatever it was the teacher was doing. I took in a generic lesson/activity for small group work (making collage Rainbow Fish on one occasion at least!), and did some whole class activities too. I find 'trial' days different to interview lessons (in contrast more formal, more planning etc) - I think often they are just to see if you will fit in at their school, and to assess if you can do the job! Also, I've never been formally observed in this situation (certainly not by the head - oh no!) but perhaps you should check that out with your agency.

I wonder why you aren't going into Y4/5 if that's where the vacancy will be?! That seems a bit strange to me!

Anyway - probably haven't been much help...I'd plan a small group activity that all the children can access at their own level - and have a few whole class 'time fillers' up your sleeve in case the teacher asks you to take them for a few minutes. Maybe take in a story you particularly like reading.
And be prepared to answer questions about your experience etc with Y4/5! Maybe take examples of planning?

Hope this has been of some - if limited - help?

[luclu]

I am in a similar situation. I have been asked to go for a school for 2 days and they will basically let me know if I can stay until summer or not! It is a bit daunting as you will feel as though your constantly being watched! Mine is for reception. I am currently looking for lots of fun resources and activities as I have never worked in that age group! If anyone has any
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s let me know!

Thanks! x