Reflection on Final Year Placement

This year, I was deeply involved in the school community, which was a really rewarding and enriching experience. Every Tuesday evening, I assisted with the girls' U16 Gaelic football team, supporting their development and team spirit. I also participated in various school events, including the school musical, the Christmas carol service, and the TY mini company sale. Within the art department, I played an active role during the school open night, where I proudly displayed my 1st Year "Mini Me" puppets. I engaged with parents and students, answering their questions about the art department and sharing my experiences as an art teacher. These moments allowed me to showcase the creativity and energy within the department. Additionally, I attended staff meetings, breakfast gatherings, and the Christmas party, which helped me build strong, collaborative relationships with my colleagues. My involvement in the school community not only strengthened my relationship with staff but also made students feel more at ease with me. Many students, even those I didn’t teach directly, felt comfortable approaching me in the hallways addressing me as "Ms. McGettigan" and seeking guidance or support. This sense of belonging truly made me feel like an integral part of the school community.

During this placement, I truly came to understand the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. Each day, I entered the school determined to maintain a high standard of professionalism, regardless of any personal difficulties I was facing. This experience showed me how resilient and dedicated I am as a teacher and provided valuable insight into the real-world demands of the profession.

I am proud of how I carried myself throughout the placement, managing personal challenges while staying committed to my students' learning and well-being. This period reinforced just how deeply I care about this career—I even felt a sense of guilt on days when I wasn’t at my best, though I never let it impact my students or their experience in the classroom

Overall, my teaching practice has grown significantly over the years, and I am eager to continue refining my skills. Identifying these areas for improvement is the first step, and I am motivated to address these challenges to make the learning experience more rewarding for both my students and myself.