by P Spalding cambolc.co.uk

X formerly Twitter @cambolc

linkedin.com/in/philipspalding66

Today is almost a year on from the Wellness measure introduced by the Unity Trust of having a 2 week Autumn halfterm break. I was working at a school in the trust at the time as long term supply. Materially the extra break did not affect me since if I am not teaching I do not get paid. From the point of view of staff who are permanent it does give a pause on the proceedings of what is generally an intense first half term. The embedding of new systems is a stressful time for any organisation without the random element of maturing young brains and intellects.

At the time I was grateful for the extra week as my elderly father fell ill and was taken into hospital. This precipitated hime starting dialysis treatment three times a week. One of the reasons I do long term supply is that it fitted with the role of full time carer. A little bit of technology with Alexa goes a long way. So last year a 2 week break is what we had. Also notable wass the fact that it started raining in late October and did not really stop until February.

The two weeks was convenient for my carer role at the time. My father went to the dentist and was recognised as having low oxygen levels. The dentist recommended I phone 111. Next stop Addenbrookes A and E. Two weeks later father back out, now on dialysis 3 times a week. Still not incapable enough to need carers or be put in a home his ultimate dread. Luckily had tailored my work to do the family orientated care rather than the state sponsored agency model. At the end of the day how many people are lost to their families because of the digital disconnect.

I listened to a very interesting radio news story which incated the work life balance model is changing. The under 30s are embracing the idea they will retire when they have an income of £45000 thrpugh pensions, investment etc. A sweeping statement and only a handful will probably achieve it. The mantra “Education, Education, Education” is a great idea one that Cambridge Online Learning Community tries to promote in the form of Universal Education. However, is there such a thing as free education. Ask an undergraduate or graduate since 1997 and the answer will definitely be no.

Now not quite 500 pennies of thought but never the less a start. As I am no longer a carer and the state pension will not kick in for another 10 years for me time to start ticking off that bucket list. My first pension starts to deliver in two years time. So there might be the opportunity to invoke my teleworking roots, to learn more about this have a look at my LinkedIn profile by following the link above.