Lunch is over.
Im just about to walk into my class when a student runs past me. I turn to see her fumbling into the bathroom. It's time for lessons, she should not be going in there now of all times.
I can't help myself. I swiftly follow her.
she manages to open the door and gets a step in. That's when I reach out and grab her arm firmly. Not the best decision as she wails for me to stop.
I release her immediately.
I clear my throat and ask sternly 'what are you doing?'
I do a once over her with my eyes, she's clearly crying, in a state and has pink liquid over her.
'Scratch that, clean yourself up then come to class 2B' i walk out swiftly, the bathroom door swinging closed behind me.
I walk the short distance to my class and get the class to get their workbooks out and then complete the assignment on the board.
I teach math and history. I've been supplying here for a while but I received a contract this morning from the head of the school, it's only until the end of the school year but it's steady work for the next 3 months. Im not complaining.
That girl will be along shortly so I stay by the door.
She's clearly had a bad day and needs time to sort herself out before she attends her next class.
I wait patiently for a good 10 minutes then walk out the door to bring the girl to my classroom. I've given her enough time to sort herself out.
I step out from the classroom. I manage a step out when I'm barged into which makes us both fall. 'What the' I manage to get out before I'm on the floor.
I look up to see the girl staring at me, then she bolts.
I'm angry! No apology, nothing, she just runs.
I shout at her to stop while getting up but she doesn't pay any attention and keeps going.
I'm standing now, dusting myself off, the class are out of their chairs.
I'm immediately stepping into the classroom shouting at them to get in their seats.
I may be new to the school but I will not be disrespected by this class nor by that girl. These children will have to learn to respect me. I'm no pushover.
I carry on with my lesson plan, my mind going back to that girl every time I set a new assignment.
when the hour is up I usher the students along to their next class.
Im free now with no lessons for the rest of the day as I don't teach sixth form so I stroll to the office and ask about the girl that came through not long ago.
I need to find out whats going on with this girl. I've never experienced such disrespect from a student before.
'Here Mr Sinclair, her folder' Maddy the young receptionist says. I take the folder and take it to my office. I'll read it once I've finished marking.