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It’s widely known there’s a ‘current crisis affecting the supply of teachers and leaders in English schools.’2 There are many reasons for this. Interestingly, one of the key issues is that while there is a huge focus on recruiting teachers, schools place little emphasis on retaining them.
If we have ambitions for our next generation, surely it must be a priority to swiftly implement and improve retention strategies?
Talking is often the first step to recovery, but many of us may feel we are failing if we admit to feeling low, depressed, or anxious.
Seeing how our Music for the Memory members react to the songs during a singing session is both heartwarming and fascinating. Feelings from the past are often triggered for them and they are more able to express their emotions through singing these familiar songs than at any other time. Singing and music and sometimes even dancing to the songs, can create calm, reduce stress and help them connect with others. It’s a truly beautiful thing to be part of.
We could all say “to hell with self-nurture right now – let’s eat crisps and drink wine”, and that, of course, is an individual’s choice. However, this challenging time will eventually pass and I for one, want to get through it and come out on the other side, along with my family and friends, as mentally and physically healthy as I possibly can be. So for me, self-nurture remains a priority.
In times of uncertainty or darkness, we often look for light, guidance, or support; something to help us navigate unchartered waters. A familiar, recognizable beacon easily visible amongst the darkness. I have used the analogy of the lighthouse as a metaphor during challenging times and have recently considered the question: what is my lighthouse right now, my go-to, my support?