Satnav, Schools and Good Teachers.

Yesterday I struggled to get the satnav operational on my phone. I know for most folk that’s no big deal, but for me it wasn’t that straightforward. Eventually successful, I used it to find Kevin’s house in the middle of rural Suffolk. I first met Kevin when I started teaching in Saxmundham thirty-two years ago…

Kevin had invited me, along with a number of other ex-colleagues, to a barbecue – because Clare, also a Saxmundham teacher, had returned to visit the UK from Australia, where she moved with her family some years ago.

It was good to catch up with folks’ personal and family news; some have retired from teaching, some have moved on to teach in other schools. It was good to reflect on happy memories and good years working together.

On Monday in Kew Gardens we encountered a number of school parties at different times during the day. On one occasion, in one of the huge glass-houses, a teacher had a group of children around some tropical vegetation describing carnivorous plants. Her teaching was informed, and enthusiastic; the children were focused and engrossed…

Grandson-Luca is away on a school residential trip. Facebook pictures have shown them  active – enjoying climbing, assault courses, archery, water-activities… It’s clear that they’re having a great time. We’re looking forward to hearing a report from him later in the week.

I’m reminded again of good teachers dong a good job with good children; those I had the privilege of observing in the past; those I’ve been reminded of in recent days.

I’m grateful that my satnav got me to Kevin’s yesterday for a great evening; I’m grateful too that my satnav got me home.

I’m grateful that my life satnav took me in 1992 to work with such a great team of teachers and support staff. I’m grateful that my life was changed for the better through knowing and working with Kevin, Clare and the rest – good people, doing good work, having a beneficial effect on each other – and me.