On Friday 4th November we had a ‘Take Over Day’ at Glynwood. The children in Years 5 and 6 were able to apply for a staff role in school. It was an absolutely fabulous day! Every child who took part rose to the occasion – we had a new caretaker, teachers, TAs, office staff, lunchtime supervisor and head teacher.
Prior to the half term holiday I talked to the children about the idea in assembly – this generated lots of excitement and enthusiasm for the idea. The children were then able to collect and complete an application form. The forms were read by staff and those for interview were selected – lots of children were disappointed at this stage as we had lots of applications and not enough positions. Those selected were then interviewed and jobs allocated. The children all took their interviews very seriously, dressing the part and being prepared to answer questions in role.
On the day children had to come in school early to prepare – our caretaker was at school for 6.10am to start at 6.30am! They were expected to carry out all of the roles staff would do on a Friday from early meetings to setting things out and planning lessons. The children were outstanding, it was a pleasure to visit classrooms and see them taking control of activities – it was a huge confidence boost to so many children it was amazing to see them ‘shine’. The day generated so much talk about jobs and the future it was great. It was a thoroughly fantastic day and we will certainly do it again next year.
Mrs D. Ryan


More photographs will be added, so please keep checking the website.
Some comments from the children who took part:
“I can’t believe that I was chosen to be Headteacher for Take Over Day. I felt very excited but nervous at the same time. This was a big responsibility and I didn’t want to let me or anyone else down. I was so proud of myself when Mrs Ryan told me I was outstanding that day and I couldn’t do any better. That was the highlight of my day. What an experience!” Sophie Webber, Headteacher
“I think everyone had a wonderful day, I know I did.” Ellie McTeer, Year 1 teacher
“It had been a hard and tiring day, but I had enjoyed it and wish I could do it again.” Miss. Dixon, Clerical Asst.
“I applied to work with Derek our Caretaker – I mopped the packed lunch hall floor, cleaned the toilets, took the milk to the kitchen and Derek made us a cup of tea – he said I had been a pleasure to work with” Joshua Hayden, caretaker
“My second lesson went with a flow. I managed to get their attention, speak to them, as well as giving instructions, I gave them spellings. At this stage I felt full of confidence, I marked their books when they were busy doing their work. Marking their books became easier as I marked them.” Hannah Cartner, Year 4 Teacher
“Take Over Day was a great day. I’m really happy I got the job as Mrs. Armstrong, I had a fun day.” Jade English, Teaching assistant.