So, teachers, what is it like to work at Red Balloon Cambridge?

“Rewarding, chaotic, fun, an eye-opener, exhausting, varied, interesting, challenging, unique, satisfying, uplifting, evolving, never boring, exasperating, stimulating, every day is different! It’s like an extended family, with all the love and all the mayhem.”

Red Balloon, for those who haven’t encountered us before, is a school for young people aged 11-17 who have self-excluded from mainstream school because of emotional trauma or bullying. We give them the skills they need to return to mainstream life, through supporting them with their academic and social skills, and their general wellbeing

It’s not the most straightforward place to work, and you can guarantee that if you have meticulously planned your lesson it will not happen today. You have to have a sense of humour and be willing to roll with whatever your students need in that moment, whether that is a lesson on Shakespeare, or a piece of toast and a chat.

As one teacher said when put on the spot: “It’s… nice.”

Our lovely teachers are taking part in the Northstowe 5k to help raise funds for more therapeutic spaces in the centre, so we can keep on supporting our students and their wellbeing. We’d be very grateful if you’re able to support us!