Elaine Ferguson

 

I am from Cape Breton originally, and I heard plenty of Gaelic in the town where I was brought up, but I had not a word or Gaelic when I married a Skye man in 2002. I moved to the Isle of Skye and studied on the one year Cursa Comais aig Sabhal Mor Ostaig. As part of that course I carried out a three week placement at Sleat Primary School. I enjoyed this so much that I was positive I’d be happy to pursue a career in teaching.

Fortunately, Aberdeen University had just started the PGDE course (distance learning), which allowed me to stay at home in Skye while studying on the teacher training course. Every placement I had was on the Island and I managed to gain experience of many schools. The course took 2 years to complete and I am now in the north end of Skye doing my probationary year.

It was a big challenge at the start of the year; I am teaching a class of P1 – P7 and although there are only 10 pupils, it’s not easy! But that is how it is in small island schools and it is great to be learning and working with all aspects of the curriculum: I’ll be ready for any level next year!

I am hugely enjoying this year. Although I had some long days back in August and September, the work has become easier and the hours have shortened slowly but surely! The same as all probationers, I have the support of a classroom assistant and she is excellent. She takes my class when I need preparation time and understands the challenges that I face. We meet every week to discuss how she can help in many ways.

I am not sure what type of work I will have next year, but I definitely want to stay in teaching, without doubt. Although the work can be tiring at times, every day is different and the children are fabulous. There is no better feeling than when you look at the developments a P1 pupil has made in maths or at the special piece of writing produced by a P7 pupil. It is an honour to be having such an impact on the lives of young people