Teacher training - Aussie style

Hi folks

Today was a day of teacher training which began for around 250-300 teaching staff in the school chapel for an hour of prayers, sermons and very jolly sing-along hymns. I was in my element, singing to my heart's content. Nathan was slightly less comfortable; though it is questionable as to whether or not he even heard any of it! The 'Rev' delivered a great sermon and then it was over to the Great Hall (I emphasise the adjective 'Great' here! an absolute feat of architecture which seats 2500 people comfortably and 3000 at a push!)for an inspiring talk from the HeadMaster to reflect on the School's performance and the transformation it's been through over its 90 year existence. We learnt that Knox comes from John Knox, the original Scot who set up the School. It has grown from 3 staff and 24 students to nearly 300 staff and over 2500 students in 90 years.

After the meeting it was time for tea/coffee, fruit and cakes. This is bad for our waist lines and I envisage Nathan's svelte figure to expand rapidly if he is not careful.

We then had a couple more enlightening meetings which highlight the subtle differences between attitudes here and in the UK.

We were then really surprised to be given a full sit down meal. It was a lovely Italian chicken in tomato sauce dish, with tagliatelle and Parmesan. Nathan avoided the side salad. After all, he is watching his weight and lettuce leaves are so calorific!

We both now have our laptops, although Nath opted for a MacBook Air. He is like a kid in a sweet shop. I will have to drag him away from his work! Most of the children themselves use MacBooks, and the rest are on normal laptops.

We're slowly picking up our resources, schemes and settling into our new environment. Although, teaching doesn't start until Thursday next week. It is very exciting and very busy. We feel very privileged!!

Lots of love.