This was always going to be an emotional week as my son left school at the end of Year 11. As he’s attended a special school, there’s been no exams so no early leave and he’s had to go right to the end of term.

Fortunately our son has loved his school and has made some lovely friends. My husband and I have been doing a lot of reflecting this week and despite all the challenges I think we got his education right for him. There’s been so much time spent over the years on getting the correct support for him but I think we did okay, he attended a mainstream primary and then went to special school for his secondary education. Next year he’s doing a more vocational course / supported internship at college.

My son did a residential earlier this term and the next rites of passage was a Prom at a local country house. He was a little nervous about the formality of the occasion but as soon as he saw his friends all dressed up, the nerves dissipated and they all had an amazing time. Parents were allowed to wait and take photos in the gardens and on the red carpet and I have some beautiful images of him and his friends ready to print out and pin up on his corkboard. I really appreciate these friendships , I think they will last, they are lovely young people.

As if prom wasn’t emotional enough, we then had the leavers assembly on Friday. My first job of the day was to take the final day of school photo on the doorstep. I then compared it with his first day of school, a tiny little boy compared to the strong, tall young man and felt so proud. Fortunately I work at a school whom are family friendly and despite it being a very busy day for our school too I was allowed the time off to attend the leavers assembly. These little gestures are so important to me as an employee. I do work hard and to be allowed the time made me feel appreciated. The assembly was just gorgeous, each leaver had their special time, sitting on a chair on stage and the Head read a speech about them all, so personal and highlighting all their characteristics, strengths and what they brought to the school, a wonderful mix of emotion and humour. Then there was a PowerPoint with all the students over the years at the school, it’s so easy to forget how small they all were and what brilliant young adults they have become. Whilst there was refreshments after, I only stopped to personally thank the head and some of my son’s old teachers before returning to school and participating in our family picnic, awards, good byes and choir. It’s fair to say I did feel emotionally spent on Friday night.

As it was the last day for students on Friday, I was treated to some lovely gifts, so many beautiful flowers and heartwarming cards. There’s tough days in teaching but the good days are the absolute best and after 29 (!) years I still can’t imagine doing any other job, teaching SEN is the most rewarding and fulfilling job I’ve ever had.

I was very spoilt on Friday as I also received some early birthday presents from my work friends. I was so touched that they know me so well, the parkrun candle is brilliant and I also got a ‘in my runner era’ socks.

After all the emotion of last week, it is back into school this week for 2 training days, a day of nail, hair and other beauty appointments , packing and then holiday! This weekend we’ve been doing the final checks and all we can before the last day or so. Oh and there’s also another birthday and anniversary to celebrate. This time of year is crazy busy but also some of the best weeks of the year, I thrive on happy busyness.