Older side entrant discovers Groene Golf
Teachers of all ages attend the starter meetings of De Groene Golf. “Logically, the older lateral entrant faces the same problems as our target group, the young teachers up to the age of 35”, says chairman Menno Kolk.
Image: Rob Niemantsverdriet
You are the new chairman, but not completely new to the Green Wave?
“Just say 'not at all'. A year ago I took over the gavel from Dorien König, but I have been active in the board since 2013, which now consists of six people. One from every education sector. We also have about ten active people across the country. Anyone who wants to do something for starting teachers is welcome to get started under the umbrella of De Groene Golf. ”
Nice that 'side entrants' know where to find you.
“Side entrants are of course also just starting teachers. From this point of view they belong to our target group. They run into the same problems. Particularly on matters of order and dealing with parents. When it comes to defining and enforcing your own boundaries towards managers, the elderly are, because they have more life experience, often more agile than young people who are just starting their first job. They still think they can handle anything or they are less daring to say 'no'. Often because they are afraid that their contract will not be extended. ”
You were once a starter yourself?
“That was not that long ago, in 2011. I also took too much on my fork and at my first school it didn't really click with the school management. Since 2014 I have been working at a primary school in Nigtevecht. There I immediately got space and confidence. For example, after just one year, I was allowed to focus on extracurricular activities. I am involved with ICT, including cloud based Google applications. In the coming period I will be working on the new privacy legislation and what we as schools should do with it. ”
So a real nerd?
“Call me a techie. Yep, that's been my thing from an early age. I can put my creativity into it. It really gives me energy when I help people to organize their work better; if I can take them in there. In fact, in addition to 'what should', every teacher should also bring something 'what is allowed' from his own passion to school. Then everyone will be happier in front of the classroom. ”
What is the Green Wave currently doing?
“Our bimonthly national masterclass for starters attracts an average of about fifty people. Always on the Friday evening. Starters are far too busy during the week and 'there is another working day tomorrow'. On Friday they do not experience that pressure and there is also room for an after drink. In addition, we organize the meeting 'How do I survive my first year in class?' In the regions. There the starter themes are discussed in a smaller group. In particular, the theme 'say no': how do you define your boundaries in a positive way. Of course we also try to keep our points in mind for everyone: less work pressure, less flex, more guidance in the first years. Just as we do towards the ministry and politics. Yes, education minister Arie Slob and I have already spoken. As a Green Golf chairman you come into contact with people who you, as an ordinary teacher, do not just drop by. That's a really nice aspect of this position. ”
