Why I do what I do ...

I teach many bright, enthusiastic and hard-working kids in addition to some that are not. I have complete understanding if pupils are not as able, and support them to achieve as best I (and they) can. I struggle more to understand the kids who are less prepared to try their very best, but it comes with the job.

Then, every now and again a child does something amazing and it makes it all worthwhile. As a homework activity pupils are tasked to make model cells, in order for them to demonstrate their understanding of the structure and function of ‘special’ cells. Then they present their model to the class.

This embroidery was produced by a Y7 pupil (aged 11-12).

This is why I am lucky to do what I do…

What is it? Where did it come from?

I sometimes start my lessons with a mystery object, and ask the class to come up with some ideas about what it is and how it could be used. This is normally a piece of science apparatus, from the back of the prep room cupboard, that they haven't yet come across. We have a lot of fun with this, and you'd be surprised by the imaginative and creative ideas that my pupils come up with.

Today the mystery object is a photograph (not a very good one) of a brass and enamelled wall plaque.

You will have to wait until later in the week to find out where this object is, and why it is important to me.