Jacqueline Blaak

· 25 Feb 2020

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Clouded image of the teacher

While I'm in the waiting room of the physiotherapist, someone comes to sit next to me, who knows I work in education. “So, a nice holiday, sure?”

I notice that I am touched by the word “yummy”. Does this person grant teachers the free time or is it a judgment because this person does not have a holiday?
I decide not to worry about it, but I respond wisely: “Yes, it is indeed a week in which teachers can decide where and how to prepare themselves and the lessons, so that they can properly match the level of knowledge and development of the students.”

With gaze full of amazement, the person looks at me and wonders aloud if what I say is really true. “I thought teachers really had a holiday, because many go skiing or to other places. So how do they prepare themselves? “Good question. I explain that these are highly educated people who are themselves responsible for their preparation. How they do that and when they do it is their responsibility, is part of their autonomy.

The person continues her conversation;

“But I thought that #leerkrachten were mainly busy with administration and should do what school leaders and boards expect from them and that therefore they have to relax in the holiday, just no workload. No busy students. So really take a vacation. Isn't that what the holidays are for?”

Luckily, I don't have to say anything back. The physiotherapist mentions my name.