IT was a case of move over Miss as staff at Walkwood Middle School once again put the pupils in charge at their Takeover Day.
Now in its third year the aim, on the eve of half term, was to give youngsters a valuable insight into the world of work and the processes involved in finding and applying for a job.
This year there were 50 jobs up for grabs, everything from caretakers and receptionists up to the teaching staff and principal.
Takeover co-ordinator Tracey Tomes said: “Students were asked to write a formal letter of application and we received 293 letters applying for all of the roles on offer.
“Following this, letters were shortlisted and successful students were invited to attend interviews and to ‘dress to impress’.
“In all 176 pupils were interviewed and staff were blown away by the maturity and approach the children took, many giving very thoughtful and insightful answers to some very tricky interview questions.”
Eventually the successful candidates were chosen and duly appointed.
“They met with staff to discuss their jobs and where necessary, plan lessons, before taking over their role,” said Tracey.
“Students took on a range of responsibilities, depending on their job, ranging from teaching lessons and marking books, to having meetings, doing duties, attending staff briefing, answering phones, communicating with parents/public, running a celebration assembly, being able to take their break in the staffroom etc.
“Events like this continue to highlight what wonderful students we have here at Walkwood. We will continue to run this popular event and look forward to its continued success in the future.”
