I was inspected this week. The inspector, who specialized in textiles (and had done a one-day workshop in lace!) spent about 30 mins going through my paperwork and making notes. I tried to explain that I didn't have a session plan, as it is impossible to know at what stage each student will be (ie if they have had time to reach that corner etc), or even which piece of lace they will bring in (some have more than one piece on the go and bring in whichever they are stuck on-or just fancy doing). I tried to explain that my students work through a sequence of patterns, each introducing new techniques, and that I kept a record of where they were at.
She then went and spoke to each student. They were brilliant, showing her their files of samples, and she seemed very interested. Then she asked me to go outside for some feedback. These are the main points,
it is important to keep this craft alive
my beginners are learning very quickly
my advanced students are producing exceptionally high quality lace
I am flexible, allowing students to digress from the programme if there is something they wish to make, and that I judge them capable of tackling
so far so good (I was beginning to relax) BUT I must have a session plan! although my students are learning, I am not planning their learning!
I asked her to explain, as I just could not understand what she was saying. She got very red and agitated and said she was not allowed to give advice, I must speak to my line manager. I repeated that I was not asking for advice, but did not understand, she just said that her time was up and scuttled off to Dressmaking!
I have asked my manager to explain it all when she gets her report. Apparently I will be "graded", but not permitted to know my grade!
Its like some sort of secret society.
My students have been most supportive and if necessary we will set up a private class.
I'm sorry this has been such a long message, but I feel much better having got it off my chest!
Best wishes
Christine (Oxford)
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