A primary school teacher has revealed what most teachers think about end of year gifts from pupils.
Primary school teacher and podcast host Lee Parkinson gave This Morning viewers a rundown on what goes in the classroom. He shared his experiences in the role along with what teachers really think of gifts and their thoughts after parent evenings.
Lee said most teachers will receive some form of a gift at the end of the year and, whilst appreciated, it's not necessary to do. He said the joy and expression on students' faces as they draw near to the summer holidays is enough and money doesn't be spent.
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Though the usual gifts included cards and chocolates, he noted these were primarily directed towards female teachers. Flowers were also a popular choice as he said they are always appreciated and well received.
He added male teachers can be more difficult to buy for which usually results in a mug, admitting the endless amount every year quickly builds up and takes space in the cupboards at home. The primary school teacher said he was a fan of the alcohol-based gift options but urged students "get it right."
He said: "I must have been given about 10 bottles of wine and I don't even drink the stuff. I'll have to start dropping hints in the future about what I actually do like."
During his segment, viewers called in to seek advice on the trouble their families were facing both inside and out of the classroom. One caller said her daughter was upset at the prospect of moving to secondary school and asked how she can reassure her.
Lee said: Just try and focus on the positive that a new school can bring. You need to talk about your experiences as a parent to show them it's not scary. Just focus on those positives." He added he battled similar issues with his own children, 6 and 7, admitting at one point he was "on the brink."
He reassured parents that connecting with kids through personal stories can help ease their anxiety. Another caller asked what she can do to settle their son's mind who was feeling regretful about his choice for secondary school. She said he was initially eager and "ready for it" but as time went on, he felt like he had made a mistake moving so far away from home and his friends.
The podcaster said: "Those feelings a perfectly normal. going to a new school is very daunting but after a few days you'll make a whole new set of friends and there'll be all these incredible new teachers you'll get to meet."
He added there are support systems in school that both parents and students can reach out to if there are continued difficulties and the staff are "always more than happy to help."
Speaking on his own experiences, host Dermot O'Leary said: "I turned up to that school not knowing anyone. I thought my life was over but within two days I had loads of friends."
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