School volunteering.

I think I would talk to someone now, as you say it's a bit thoughtless. If there was no choice but the outdoor classroom I would have expected this to have been made clear on initial contact. Outdoors isn't for everyone and winter is coming.

I agree too BB I don’t think I d like to do outdoor work through the winter and it would have been made clear to you from the start I presume you would have tried a different school had you been told you d be outdoors in all weathers

Yes, I would say now, it is a bit thoughtless. There are always plenty of needs to be met by willing volunteers and I am sure they could find you a different role in a more suitable environment for you. Volunteers are like gold dust and they should want to make good use of you in a way that will be to everyone's benefit.

I worked as a volunteer (but in a charity shop, not a school). I was not getting paid, so did not do anything I didn't want to do. I worked hard but did not offer to vacuum for instance. I find that a heavy job and used to pay someone to do it for me at home until my husband retired and took over.

You will still have plenty of offer. I have had a lovely time in my grandchildren's school helping with the reading.

As a retired teacher, I'm surprised that you have been asked to help outside. I think someone just hasn't thought about the implications. I would go back and explain that physically it would be too challenging, but you have lots to offer indoors. I would have love you to help in my school. Good luck.

Thanks everyone. And*Marydoll*, it isn't as if I have had no experience working in schools. I started way back in 1979 , and finished up as a supply teacher and designated teacher for CP .

Well done on volunteering.

I wouldn't say anything unless it became a problem unless you have a specific condition that would be affected.

I agree with Liz that as a volunteer you shouldn't do things that you don't want to do but being 73 isn't anything other than a number imo!

Well, you would be such an asset. The school would mad to lose you! I'm not sure how to articulate this. I think younger people don't have a clue about the older generation. Just before I was forced to retire, as one of the management team, the HT would asked me to cover a class literally with a few minutes notice. At this point I was struggling with stairs and unable to walk fast. He would pull me up for not getting there fast enough. He hadn't a clue. I can actually visualise the person who suggested you go outside. ((She was the Depute Head) in my school.?

They've put you there because nobody else wants to be outside in the winter! Even the paid staff would try to avoid going outside at the school I was at. It's why I was so popular when my menopausal hot flushes meant I volunteered at very opportunity You could give it a try.

I have spoken to the school administrator this morning and voiced my concerns. She was very helpful and we have agreed that I will give it a go but let her know if things become difficult. The children get a lot from the outside classroom and they are restricted by lack of staff. I already have lots of ideas but will tread carefully at first. Wish me luck as I start on Thursday.

Wishing you luck bb. Wrap up!

Well, good luck BB but don't get taken advantage of. It rather makes my blood boil that schools are relying on volunteers to do this sort of thing. I realise that BB is a qualified teacher but most volunteers would not be. Is this good for the kids? Is it good for the volunteers? Classroom management is an important part of teacher training and an outdoor classroom is still a classroom.

Eglantine21 that did make me smile, but I am a little too old for hot flushes ?

My son in law is a forest school leader, I know he takes time and trouble organising his lessons so people don't get cold. I would wear layers rather than wrapping up!

BB It does sound thoughtless of them. I hope you enjoy the outdoor work as much as you're able. I'd be needing to sit down a lot! Presumably the children aren't out in driving rain, or are they?
I hope it all works out to a satisfactory arrangement for everyone.

That sounds better, bb, it allows you to try and perhaps enjoy it but not to your detriment. Sounds a win:win.

ApparentlyElrel the children go out when at all possible. Only the lack of their suitable clothing restricts who goes out in the rain.

I still think they re taking advantage I wouldn’t want to be out in cold damp days