11 Plus Exams Forum

This is slightly off topic.

My son is in year 5 and his teacher who only works 4 days a week has been off sick for all but the first 2 weeks of term. During those first 2 weeks she had a couple of sick days.

I think this must be the most important year but the school have done very little other than to provide a stream of supply teachers. We couldn't have parents evening because the teacher didn't know the kids and we are getting very little homework.

The Head is very protective of this teacher they have worked together for years, however, this is a pattern that has been ongoing for several years. Some parents are experiencing this problem for the second time! We're thinking of approaching the Governors.

Any views suggestions appreciated.

Dear Guest

At the end of the day this situation is effecting your son's education and those of the other pupils in his class. I think you would be right to approach the governers on this.

As for the teacher, obviously we are all human and if the teacher is sick then there is not a great deal that can be done but, as you say that this has happened before, it needs looking into. Teachers are off for approximately 14 weeks per year (more in the independent sector) and although they do work incredibly hard and have work to prepare/mark, etc during these weeks they are still very well off indeed for holiday and those who have children are even better off because they do not need to employ childcare, etc during the school holidays.

We should have sympathy with the teacher, I think, but the absence should not be taken lightly.

Thanks for your thoughts.

I agree with what you say, the teacher is a lovely woman and everyone gets ill from time to time. I don't know what her problem is I can take an educated guess and of course she should have the appropriate time off. We have no idea how much longer this is going to be. Our children only get one chance at year 5, so something has to be done.

We've drafted a letter to the governors today so hopefully some action may be taken.

Definately get the letter to the Governors. Supply teachers do not always have the input and level of interest that a regular teacher would have. Year 5 is an important year, the children need some continuity. If the Head is not taking appropriate action then take it further.

Thanks Essex Mum,

Just got back from school, another supply teacher who normally teaches reception!