JustPickOneUK

 I had the pleasure of attending an event at Bournemouth University yesterday which was celebrating 100 years since John Logie Baird demonstrating his first television and considering what is in store for the next 100 years. The speakers were all very eloquent and gave different perspectives based on their experience with leading production companies, advertising and even the BBC.  Discussions varied from the introduction of the TV itself, how the position TV holds in society has risen and changed, how YouTube, TikTok and others have affected viewing styles and figures and that in the end TV is here to stay (at least for now). Here is the link to the full conversation  https://www.youtube.com/live/3Fbxy7gk-gs?si=GMLHxKmCEQMSEtfO   After the event we had the chance to speak to the speakers but I wanted to make sure the students got the chance first and so I took a look at the cameras they have at their disposal to train on. I was considering the expertise the students...

Rejection can come in many forms and from many places. I used to deal with rejection in a very internalised way. I failed. I am not good enough. What’s wrong with me? Why don’t they want me? Why wasn’t I chosen?  But not anymore. I am choosing to think differently about rejection.  I’m currently sitting in a coffee shop waiting for anyone to show up to the meet up I have arranged for local creatives. I had interest on Facebook and tickets were “purchased” (its a free event) from several people - but no-one is here. We are over an hour into a 2 hour meet up and every ticket is a no-show.  If this was a couple of years ago I would have gone into the downward spiral of feeling like a failure. But not any more. I am using this opportunity. I’ve brought my laptop and my headphones, listening to the K-POP Demon Hunters soundtrack and getting on with writing a blog post instead. I’m utilising the time I would have spent on meeting others by benefitting myself.  I am going t...

 Well it's that time again. Another academic year over. The last day of the school year. A time for reflection, for relief, for yourself. This year has been a hard one for me. My role changed from being the lunch lady to becoming a TA. That changed my life dramatically and I have felt so many differing emotions that I have no idea how I actually feel about the last day. My last day with the children in an educational capacity. I will cease to be "Mrs Oliver" and become "my son's Mum" again.  I've been working in Reception and in Year 3. Both challenging year groups with very different levels of ability and need requirements. But at the end of it all they are all just kids learning to do something new. Learning what the teachers want to tell them, to read, write, make music, cut and stick. Learn about our planet, about themselves, socialisation skills and that p.e. is their favourite lesson.  Whether they are 4, 8 or 11 years old all of the kids need a tr...