Always a teacher

Something that really struck me today is that once you become a teacher it seems to be something you can't ever escape from.  Wherever you go and whoever you are with, you cannot put aside your 'teacher' hat and switch off completely.  Even on holiday!  A teacher friend of mine even bumped into 2 students whilst on holiday in Italy over the summer - so it's a good job she wasn't topless sunbathing at the time!

 

Despite it being Saturday today - a day I like to keep free from all things 'school' - I was on a course about becoming a good HoD (Head of Dept) - so I'm even giving up my own time to be trained.  On top of this I arranged to meet a good friend (also a teacher) for lunch afterwards - and despite not meaning to, the conversation always turns to teaching/ the kids/ stories about behaviour etc.  Even if I go out with non-teaching friends, the talk inevitably turns to school at some time or other, as they enjoy the stories - and there always seems to be a new one to add to their list for either shock purposes or  general entertainment value.

 

I also find that I cannot ignore rude children who jump queues or play their music too loud on the trains etc - I just have to say something - I'm sure it will get me into trouble one day!

 

I can only imagine it must be the same for other similar jobs, such as the police, doctors etc - as you cannot just switch off, no matter how hard you try (although I do find after a few alcoholic beverages it is easier to manage - but then it's Murphy's Law that you will then bump into a 6th former (or younger!) in your local!)  

 

I would like to add that of course I never imbide of alcoholic beverages, as I am always a total professional and would hate to upset any underage drinkers that might have escaped from my local educational establishment - heaven forbid they should spot a teacher having a social life!!