An Interview with Mr. O’Donovan!
- Were you nervous meeting your new class?
I have to say I was really nervous because I didn’t know the class and they had no idea who I was. It was difficult because I was going to be taking over from a fantastic teacher, half way through the school year. I wanted to put my own little twist on things as well as keeping some of the groups routines, so it was a nervous time for me!
- What was it like leaving your old school?
It was very strange because I started my teaching career there. I had only been there for two years but I had met some amazing pupils and teachers, and had built up some fantastic relationships. The Principal of my old school was and still is someone who has given me advice from the beginning, so saying goodbye to her and the other staff was also difficult. But we all keep in contact.
- Have you settled in completely to your new classroom?
I think so. I have the Cork GAA jersey hanging up which is the most important thing. We have a good routine now, and things are definitely taking shape. There’s still lots of stuff to do with regards putting up displays and stuff, but I think the atmosphere in the room is good and we are getting to do some exciting lessons. It’s a fun room to be in, and there is a relaxed mood in there so yes I do think I have settled.
- Are you liking it here in St. Annes?
It’s such a change for me compared to my previous school but I am thoroughly enjoying it. All of the staff have been so welcoming, and have really made me feel at home from the beginning. It is such a busy school, and there is always something happening which keeps me on my feet and I love it! The children are polite, and always say hello to me on the corridor, and there’s just a great atmosphere around the school each day. Assembly on Fridays is something new for me but its a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the many talents of the children in the school and it is a true reflection of the ethos of the school.
- What were you looking forward to the most when you were coming here?
It’s always going to be exciting meeting a new class and getting to know the children individually. So I was excited to get to know the class and to build up a positive relationship with the group. I had 4th and 5th class together last year, so I was looking forward to trying out lessons that worked well for me with them, and also some new lessons. I haven’t had a chance yet, but I’m looking forward to teaching them some proper Cork hurling skills as well!
- Are there any differences between this school and your old school?
There are lots of differences. For starters, St. Anne’s begin in the morning earlier and we also finish earlier than my old school. The school is much bigger. My old school had about 150 pupils. As I mentioned already, assembly is something new for me on Fridays, something that my old school wouldn’t have done as often.There are other differences like for example a lot of children in my class in my old school would have got a bus to school, and I know that this doesn’t happen in St. Annes. There are lots of after school clubs and activities in St. Anne’s because of the huge number of pupils and interest from children, which is new and exciting for me. I hope that I can help out in some way with activities in time to come!
- What subject do you like teaching most with your new class?
The class are very much involved in choir with the school, and they’re very talented singers. So I love trying out new songs with them. They’re also very creative in writing so I’ve really enjoyed English lessons where we have written poems like Limericks and Haikus which were fun.
- Are you enjoying the experience of your new class and school?
I really am enjoying it very much! The first couple of weeks were a big change for both of us and it took some time to get a routine in place but it has been really enjoyable. As I said, the staff have been more than welcoming and I am enjoying coming in each and every day to school. It has been a great experience so far, and I am excited for the next few months especially when the weather hopefully picks up and we can get outside for more outdoor activities and lessons.