One of the autistic students at the school I teach at was often 'calmed' by being squished in a folded foam mattress by his Teacher Aide. I hate to think what anybody observing that thought. Although I in no way condone what the teachers and teacher aides at Miramar Central did, I deplore the lack of support, training, and resources that teachers and teacher aides working with special needs students receive. As the SENCO (special needs co-ordinator) in a primary school with several high needs students among it's population, I have had no extra training and receive no extra release (above that which I have as a DP) to fulfil the role. Special needs on a shoestring doesn't work, and the Ministry and Minister need to face up to the problem they have created.

Where have all the good men gone?

Another song i have planned to have played at my funeral...

I've been called by my first name at work since I moved to an inner city Wellington School in the mid 80s. In those days it was considered frightfully radical.

When I left to live and teach in London 4 years later I couldn't contemplate being addressed by my students in any other way. Despite concern from the English teachers I worked alongside ("they'll never respect you!") I had no problems- well on the whole less than those around me.

Now days only those who I taught in the first 3 years of my career greet me with an honorific. (horrible term!)

King Kapisi always says "Hi, Miss Annett" :0)

"Young wings can fly" by Johnny and the Attractions.
And they can play "Should I stay or should I go" by the Clash as they carry me out...