Sonia Fernandes, a Community Story from Portugal
I am a trainer at Centro MAIS Qualifica which is a Vocational Training center providing recognition and skills validation services. I work as a trainer at Centro Mais a qualification centre in Fafe - North of Portugal. This territory is recognised as the AEFAFE Business Association region of influence. My job is to work in partnership with local partners. I am cautiously optimistic about the initiatives due to be promoted in the new context of the training system.
The reality of a trainer in the current situation is far from easy. There are many challenges. Time management is a major issue.
We were already anticipating the training situations and COVID-19 related topics are making up much of our work in terms of content. Adults are participating with their own experience. With these words I first made contact with the Qualifica Center team a few weeks ago. A few days on and I was struggling to manage my time. I was at home with my children who constantly need my attention!
Never get yourself down! This is my motto.
In addition to my work, I had to home school my oldest son and entertain my youngest. And, of course there is the house work that needs to be done on a daily basis. This does not get me down or impact on my performance, but it does allow me to find the best solutions to face challenges. At the same time my workload has not gone down. Quite the opposite! I guide my Qualifica groups, prepare materials for the school, mark work, participate in meetings, guide and mentor my students from my 2 ATL / study centre. All online and with two children in the background. There are several fields of action that I must now carry out from home.
I must confess that I am slowly beginning to believe that teleworking, with children at home, is a myth.
I have a constant feeling of not being able to give my children my undivided attention because I have to work. While on the other hand, I cannot be as productive in my work because I have to pay attention to the children.
We're looking forward to hearing your story. Share your story today!
