I chose this module as it would give me the opportunity to experience the working environment in sport and it would give me skills that I could take into future employment. I keep in touch with staff from my old school and asked about the opportunity to get work experience in the P.E department there. When they got back to me and said they’d be willing to take me on I was delighted. Me and my mentor Chris looked at what days would suit best and decided that a Wednesday worked for both sides. On Wednesday morning, I was nervous before I got into the school as I didn’t know what to expect but my nerves were calmed within ten minutes as all of the staff were very welcoming.
The first class of the day was an S4 class and they were doing basketball. They were looking to improve their positive self-talk therefore I was helping with motivating them to succeed as well as refereeing matches. I enjoyed this as it gave me a chance to help students improve their game and I like to see young people enjoy sports. Next up was a first-year class who were swimming. It was surprising to see that only 8 out of 23 in the class took part, there were numerous excuses for non-participation. It was sad to see so many young people not want to take part in activities as when I look back from my time at school everybody loved taking part in P.E.
During lunch, it felt strange sitting in the staff base with people who were my old teachers but getting involved in all the conversations settled me even more and made me feel like I fit in this environment.
Finally, I was with an S2 class who were doing fitness, this consisted of teams running laps and a competition to see who could do the most laps, I was in charge of counting the laps by each team which was stressful as I needed to keep an eye on everything to make sure I calculated correctly. It was good to see a younger class working hard and enjoying P.E after the disappointment from the swimming class in the morning. As the class worked hard the teacher then let them play dodgeball for the last 20 minutes which everyone enjoyed.
Overall my first day was a success and I enjoyed getting an insight into teaching off of the P.E teachers at the school. I am excited to go back next week and learn more.
Seems like youre very organised in terms of your work experience and interesting to see your thoughts/views on the lack of particpation.
Good to hear your first day was a success. I hope you continue to enjoy gaining an insight into teaching P.E. – Euan
This looks like an exciting placement! Im glad you enjoyed it and are looking forward to going back.