Due to a staff absence, I was asked to cover an English lesson last week. When I arrived at the classroom, Miss Richardson – one of our experienced Learning Assistants – had already sat the students in their seats and they were reading their books silently. I then needed to step outside to speak to another member of staff and when I returned, Miss Richardson had displayed the PowerPoint presentation and had started delivering the lesson.

The positive relationships she has established with the students were clearly evident. The class was listening to her, following her instructions and enjoying the lesson. As a result, a role reversal took place. Miss Richardson taught the lesson while I was able to wander the classroom and support the students wherever necessary.

The students completed some excellent work under the tutelage of Miss RIchardson and really appreciated her hard work – as did I.