When teacher training days take on whole new meaning - Editor's comment

On Wednesday, my middle son has a planned day off school. It is what my generation refers to as a Baker Day. They have changed names plenty of times but most understand it as a teacher training day. Now there is something to look forward to, I thought rubbing my hands together. Well, we have to have a laugh whenever we can in lockdown don’t we?

Oh, how badly training is needed for me and all other unwitting teachers who were merely parents a year ago. We know we can’t do it like those expert professionals who care for our little ones in classes of 30. I can’t even imagine trying to get so many youngsters to focus let alone educate them. All those interuptions, toilet breaks, mess and hungry tummies. That is all before you even think about reading, writing or (please not at home in my kitchen) science experiments.

I certainly need more advice in how not to laugh at cheeky retorts such as, ‘you are hardly teaching us mum so I’ll take Wednesday as a day off’. It is true, thank goodness schools are doing such a good job at reinventing themselves online because my report would read ‘must try harder’ in the subject of teaching.

I spoke to another mum today whose daughter asked her what the lockdown of her own childhood had been like, as if this is a regular occurrence. We are all glad it isn't and we must appreciate the huge impact it is having on today’s youngest generations.

Most importantly, we want our children back in the classroom as soon as it is safe to do so. If time passes more quickly the older you get, try and remember how long a week can be when you’re little.

The thought of home schooling until March 8 at the earliest is as difficult for working parents as it is for children and teachers. It seems so very, very far away.

We will get through it together and we will appreciate those who keep our schools going more than ever when we are back together. In the meantime, all training tips are welcome. I have no doubt our children will be much better off back with their friends, focused on education and learning … no matter how much training I could manage.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.