As we check in to see how our NQTs are getting on amid this time of national crisis, we talk with Melanie Taylor, English teacher at Outwood Academy Shafton to discuss her Outwood journey so far.

[outwood.com] Hi Melanie, nice to speak with you again! Let’s start prior to when the ‘lockdown’ measures were introduced. How were you finding your NQT year?

MT: “Hello! It’s great to speak with you again! Well, I found that I was feeling more settled with my classes and more confident in following my instincts when it comes to developing resources and behaviour management.”

Sounds like you were making really good progress. So, how have you coped since the lockdown measures were introduced due to the ongoing pandemic and with the school closures?

“Honestly, it has been an extra struggle for me personally as I had been away from the academy for four weeks because I had undergone surgery and I was just due to start back as the academy was closed. 

“I am fortunate though to live with quite a few of my family members so there's lots to do at home! However, it does feel increasingly strange to not be on site and seeing my students each day.”

Having family members around must be a welcome distraction and be keeping you busy! Overall, how do you feel you’re managing with the situation?

“I have been getting through lots of jobs in the house! 

“I moved in October so it's been nice to focus on sorting things out. Google classroom means that I am able to chat with my students whenever they want to reach out which allows us to still feel connected. 

“I think having online contact is really important as we are a large part of the lives of our students. I am making sure to make the most of daily exercise by taking my insane dog out for long walks.”

Getting jobs done around the house is always a winner! Finally, it is a very unsettling time. Have you felt supported through the process by the Outwood team?

“That’s true. It is unsettling but my NQT coordinator has been in regular contact making sure that I am doing okay which has been really nice. 

“My department are also sharing online learning resources to help share the workload of translating classroom lessons into a format that can be accessed by students of all ages and abilities. 

“The OGAT revision and online learning websites have been amazing for helping guide my planning for activities.”

Well that sounds like a really positive way to end this chat. Thanks, Melanie!