I am sitting at my desk for the second Saturday morning in a row, trying to complete work that I didn’t get to during the week and that unfortunately can’t wait (curriculum planning day on Tuesday and I am only getting an opportunity to search through the resources on PDST now!). The workload of principals, and especially teaching principals like me is simply ridiculous! I have been a teaching principal for 13 years, and I have never felt so overwhelmed and frustrated.
My overwhelming feeling this morning is guilt. Guilt that my pupils in my learning support classes are not getting from me what they should. Guilt that my two very young children were disappointed as I left the house to go to school this morning instead of spending time with them. Guilt that I am too tired to focus on my relationship and family life. Guilt that I do not have time to look after myself. Guilt that I did not get to the PDST materials sooner!
Through my frustrated tears I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone on the committee for taking the time out of their hectic and unsustainable schedules to voice the frustration and anger that so many of us are feeling. It is a great source of comfort and support to me that I am not alone and it is heartening to see the progress been made. The National Principals Forum are been heard and listened to.