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

[Outwood.com: Hi Sheik, thanks for chatting with us again during this uncertain time at the minute. So before we discuss the current circumstances, how were you getting on prior to the closures?

Sheik Begum: “It is really ironic actually because in the weeks preceding the school closures I was feeling so confident and up to date with all my marking, planning and everything. I felt like I was really getting into routine with my teaching.”

“I have found SLT to be very encouraging and supportive and I feel like I am valued at this academy. I have not felt as stressed as I was expecting to feel but I have been trying to be organised so that I can still have a healthy home life with my family and I think this has helped so much.”

On the positive side then, at least you were feeling confident and making great progress. So what about since the closures then? What were your initial feelings when they were announced?

“When the closures were first announced I struggled a lot with the thought of saying goodbye to my students not knowing when I would see them again. 

“I felt guilty that I had promised to be there for them but now I am leaving them in the midst of uncertainty. However I have found that keeping in contact through Google Classroom has enabled me to continue to support them but in a different way.

“Working from home is an entirely different experience for me. I have my three children at home with me and so it was quite overwhelming on Monday if I'm honest. 

“I am starting to get into a routine now though and be aware of my children's needs as well as my students' needs. It is difficult to balance the two because I cannot solely focus on one at a time.”

It must be a very difficult balance, that’s true. How do you feel you’re coping with it?

“Ultimately, I have had to make peace with the fact that this is beyond any of our control.

“In the last couple of days I spoke to my classes and explained to them that I am available for them through Google Classroom if they want to ask any questions, are worried about anything or just want to check in.

“I have had to make sure that I stop working at 2.30pm because otherwise it can easily then start taking over more and more of my time. 

“I tend to try and get out in the garden and switch off with my children so that they get some quality mum time too. 

“It's hard not to be influenced and scared about what is happening around us but I keep reminding myself that this is only temporary and things will get better. That's the message I have been giving to my students too.”

That is all very true, it is a very unique situation we are experiencing. Overall then, do you feel you’re still being well supported as an NQT despite the current circumstances?

“I feel incredibly supported by the Outwood Family as well as my school. 

“I have not had to worry about my NQT year as it has been made clear by everyone that our health and our family's health is priority and we must do what we can. 

“I continue to get advice and help from my department and mentor. It has been nice that staff have been checking in on us to make sure we are ok and are coping with this different way of working and it makes me feel less anxious. 

“What an NQT year it has been!”

What an NQT year exactly! I think that’s a great way to end this chat! Thanks for your time, Sheik!