Back to Class...with Kristina Carpenter

As the new academic year begins, we have managed to grab five minutes with some busy members of the Outwood Family to discuss how they have found getting back into the classroom and being together again with students.

This time we sat down with Kristina Carpenter, Associate Assistant Principal at Outwood Academy Adwick.

Outwood.com: Hi Kristina! Thanks for chatting with us during what is a very busy time for you I am sure, so I will get straight to it.

It is September and we are back in the classroom! How did you feel in the lead up to the start of the new academic year?

KC: “Hello! It’s nice to talk with you and thanks for asking me to take part. 

“Before we reopened I felt really positive, as the academy and Trust had been really supportive. All the information about how the academy was going to run and work was shared well in advance, allowing us time to prepare. 

“I was also asked about my opinions and views on the logistics which allowed me to feel part of the team. However, it is still very hard to visualise a whole different approach and therefore I felt excitedly anxious about seeing it 'back in action'.”

Some nervousness has to be expected given the unprecedented times we are currently experiencing. Focussing on the excitement though, what were you most excited by as the new term approached and what were your expectations? 

“If I am being honest I didn't know what to expect. 

“I had absolute faith in the team behind the plans and knew that if something wasn't working it would be corrected. More importantly I also knew that whatever decision was made was for the safety of staff and students and this gave me confidence and assurance about returning to the academy. 

“As for what I was most excited about, I think that has to be seeing the students and getting back into the classroom.”

So now you’re back then, given you were unsure what to expect, how has it been being back in the academy with students?

“It has been brilliant and I have loved how keen the students are to be back. 

“As I said I was a bit unsure what to expect but it is obvious by their behaviour and when you interact with students that they have really missed the academy and I love their eagerness to learn.”

Sounds like a perfect start to the term then! Has this affected your hopes or expectations for the rest of the term?

“To be honest, I think like most people, this term I would just like to see staff and students continue to gain confidence working in this new normal.”

We completely agree, Kristina. Thank you for your time and speaking with us.