I finally have my Department ID number so I can teach in public schools in WA. But don't be disappointed if that seems too straightforward, it comes with some brain-twisting complications. In fact, I find myself in a situation that Joseph Heller could write about. (I know it's a polarising novel but I'm firmly in the 'love' camp. I even did a special project on it in high school - nerd alert!)
So, let me summarise... to be employed by a school you need to clear a Working with Children Check. Seems sensible enough so far, right? However, in order to submit the form to get a WWCC you need a signature from your employer - you know, the person who has employed you. Rightio, so I'll just pop along...to my principal...and get a signature...except...I don't...because I can't until I......aaaargh! The Department told me it was fine to just get the form signed when I begin working, but seems to have also told schools that they shouldn't employ anyone who hasn't passed the check. My extra unique complication is that you also need to show ID with proof of address. I also don't have an address. In fact one of my tasks for tomorrow is to find us a room at a backpackers now that our stay in the Freedom catalogue is nearly over.
But I'm very pleased that my other task for tomorrow involves visiting two local schools with my résumé and my best competent teacher persona. I rang these schools this afternoon and spoke to two women who were (true to WA form) friendly and helpful. They asked me to drop in tomorrow - keen! My plan is to convince them that I'm so awesome that they must employ me and hence convince someone to sign my WWCC in anticipation of me being in employment. Or something like that.
On the house front we are in price negotiations over a house. The property manager is meeting the owner at 9am and promises to call me after that. I can't give any more details obviously because that would jinx it. There is a clear cause and effect relationship here. If there is good news, you will hear it.
In other promising events I went to the first meeting of my reading group on Tuesday night (half an hour late because I'm an idiot). Nice folks, good conversation and interesting books chosen for two months ahead (The White Tiger and Invisible, if anyone's interested). The night culminated in me joining the group's founders for a glass of sangria at their apartment. *pats self on back for applying friend-making skills*
In other promising events I went to the first meeting of my reading group on Tuesday night (half an hour late because I'm an idiot). Nice folks, good conversation and interesting books chosen for two months ahead (The White Tiger and Invisible, if anyone's interested). The night culminated in me joining the group's founders for a glass of sangria at their apartment. *pats self on back for applying friend-making skills*
Finally, in response to popular demand (ha! I kid), as part two in our series on 'Large Buildings That Make Me Swoon', I present this lovely lighthouse. So earnest in its duties. So green! Just lovely.
well well! progress!
ReplyDeleteBut yeah, that work conundrum. It's like the schools and the Department of Ed are the left and right frontal lobes and somebody cut the cord that joins them. Maybe you could get a job at the hostel and get them to sign it? ; )
And huge applause to you getting out in the social world of new people! The sooner you are not spending your days on the internet like some junkies i know, the better!!