Changes in the Gallipoli Schoolroom
Host: Gallipoli Station
Written by Chloe French – Governess, Gallipoli.
G’day, I’m Chloe the Gallipoli Governess (Govy). I have been working for the Bishop family for almost two years now. I teach three kids that I lovingly refer to as, ‘my minions’. First up, Lachlan in year four, Georgia in year one, and last but not least Willy (William) in E-Kindy.
My three Minions on their first day day back at School.
A few differences from last year to this year is first adding another little minion to the pack which was Willy who started this year in E-Kindy – he always keeps me on my toes. As soon as school is over for the day, which is from 7:30-12 he plays under the schoolroom until I knock on the floor to tell him “It’s activity time!!” and he comes racing up the stairs and gives a big grin.
Willy’s first day of school.
Another new thing this year was our schoolroom being painted. Before it was a ‘schoolroom’ it was the ‘cook’s quarters’. As we need much more space for the three minions and the first thing I thought that it needed was a make over! It was a boring, cream colour and it needed a transformation, which the kids were extremely excited about. It took only three days but we finally got it done during the school holidays.
Main area of the schoolroom.
The craft area.
A new challenge that I added this year for myself was starting University studying Primary School Teaching through Charles Darwin as an external student. Yep I know what your thinking . . . “what a silly idea” . . . yeah I know! I couldn’t move back to the city to do it though so I thought ‘Hey why not?’ and ‘What’s the worst that could happen . . . ?’ Well actually I had heaps of thoughts running through my head that I still have to this day. It’s a great experience to teach as a govie and learn at the same time, putting what I’m learning into practice everyday.
I have always been told that change is a good thing and this year we have had many new and exciting changes. I can’t say my minions were happy about me taking on University because now it takes up all my time after work. I always have Willy playing under the schoolroom yelling out “Chloeeee . . . are you in there?” in a sneaky voice (which he probably learnt from me). Then there’s Georgia coming in and attempting to help, which usually turns into us playing games on my phone. Don’t worry I passed my first semester . . . somehow.
I can hear my minions yelling out from underneath the schoolroom, I’d better go check it out before they kill each other!
My minions painting outside.