My last week as a teacher in Dubai. I survived a year, but it wasn't for me. After 5 years of not being able to work, I think I probably took the wrong job, so I could reclaim some of my identity.
There's no sadness about leaving. The work load was manageable and I loved teaching the kids, but I felt under so much pressure to be 'better' all the time. My reasons for leaving were because of this, but I told the parents it was because I needed to spend more time with my family in the UK.
My official letter wasn't issued till Tuesday and it implied that the school had asked me to leave.
'From time to time we have to restructure staffing arrangements.........'
My colleagues came to say goodbye and threw me a little party, the parents and children gave me some amazing gifts of jewellery, flowers and perfumes, but the management team didn't say goodbye, my salary cheque wasn't ready and I was even told I had to do planning for the new teacher for the first week back.
So no regrets.
My mum is still finding it too hot to go out during the day so it's home from work and off out somewhere. this week we visited Mirdif City Centre Mall, The aquarium on the Palm, Mercato Mall, City Walk and The Green Planet Rain Forest, Dubai Festival City and the beach at sunset for a walk and dinner.
Day 346 Carol. Mirdif City Centre, christmas shopping.
Day 347 Dark. The Atlantis Palm. A visit to the aquarium, a drive round the Palm and fish and chips for supper on the Board Walk.
Day 348 Teacher. Completing the final pieces of paperwork in school. In the evening we popped to Mercato Mall where I picked up some Jack Wills clothing for the 2 youngest kids for Christmas as there was 40% off.
Day 349 Looking up. The Green planet rain forest.
Day 350 Family. Last day at work and some of the gifts from the families of the children in my class.
We went out for a meal in the evening to The Walk at JBR with Peter's colleagues.
Day 351 Cake. A visit to Dubai Festival City, including a trip to Ikea.
Day 352 Thank you. Bob and Jelly's party bag from Dog Walk.
We're looking after a friends dog until the New Year.
