Last day of work experience (for now)

Well, yesterday was my final day for this 'block' of work experience. We did the usual sort of lessons but the main changes I felt were my increasing confidence with the kids, my ability to actually properly explain something and see the little girl (terrible at maths!) understand and be able to move on without my help, and my comfort levels in the staff room.
I was left on charge of helping kids finish decorating and glueing their easter boxes. It all went well, the kids listened and did as they were told. There was glue everywhere but we got the boxes done! (note to self - make sure boxes are cut out so they'll actually stick together in a box shape if I ever do this myself. Oh, and they take longer than you'd think!)
Okay, a couple of girls messed about a bit and I still felt a little like I wasn't sure what the best way of dealing with it was. I think that because I'm not there all the time, or know the school policies, and because they are not 'my' class it's harder. I'm always aware of treading on the teachers toes (although they are all lovely and incredibly supportive) and trying to act like a real teacher (rather than taking them to the teacher to sort out). Still, I managed it and that's the sort of thing that will only come with experience.
The other big thing that I'm noticed over these few weeks is the way the staff room has changed. There's certainly never been any feeling that I'm unwelcome, just that I was being ignored, or that we all felt uncomfortable with me about. Some of the teachers had taught my eldest son (and most knew about him) and my youngest is at school there, so that was odd, and although all the teachers were friendly when we got talking I generally wasn't included in conversations. But then they were talking about school matters, or family stuff which were running conversations. I never let it get to me, I was more than happy to accept that I was the new girl, and began popping home at lunchtimes to get out of their way. Two weeks ago, though, my car needed a new clutch and I was stuck there so I just packed some sandwiches, checked it would be okay to stay with my son's teacher during parent's evening the night before and just stuck my neck out.
It was a bit strange, but no-one minded and I chatted to various members of staff, and commented during group chats when appropriate. A few times during the last few weeks the teachers have told me that I really must just ring or pop in if I need any help or advice or anything during my training. I believe that you have to accept that you're the newbie and a trainee to boot, and accept that you're not going to be welcomed with open arms, necessarily, when you begin your training.
On the last day of term (easter, summer and christmas) they apparently have a meal together - we had lasagne and salad and cake (and orange juice or wine!). It was really nice, and I soooooo hope that one day I can work there!!
The teacher I was working with was really grateul for my help over the last few weeks and it was really great to feel useful. I certainly felt like a 'teacher' at times during the work experience, and I'm really glad the DRB made me do it because i think my confidence will be so much higher when I begin GTP.
My biggest problem so far? Remembering names. It doesn't help that I'm only going in once a week, but girls inparticular I just cannot remember!! There was one girl who I was convinced was a Bethany when she was actually a Megan! She just looked like a Bethany to me! Arghh. I have 2 sons so I guess I'm more used to boys names! I'm going to practice linking names to people. I managed it with a few kids - a boy with curly hair framing his face was called Rory - I thought his hair looked a bit like a lion's mane (Roary - Rory. Get it?)
Anyway, I've started reading 'Children's Errors in Maths: Understanding Common Misconceptions' and it seems really useful. Some of the things I've read about I have seen n class and it's given me some ideas already for things I need to remember when planning lessons, so that's good.
Also just read 'Will Storr Vs the Supernatural' - a nonfiction book about a cynical journalist's investigation into the paranormal. It was a really interesting read - probably the most fascinating I have read in a while - and I'd recommend it to anyone with an open mind!
Now I'm attempting to read 'Lord of the Rings' again since I'm beginning to participate in a LOTR roleplaying game soon, and I'm the only one who never managed to finish the book!
More when I have some news!