I taught them to cook vidya4 - Flipbook - Page 10
8
Autumn Term
Why does cooking have so many rude words?
Boys don’t cook
A gang of grumbly boys bursts into my room. It’s an explosive
end to my week.
‘I ain’t doing this lesson. I chose Art. This lesson’s for girls or
poofters.’
‘I’m only here ‘cos Mr Smith won’t have us in metalwork.’
They glance me up then down, starting with my red platform
shoes and up over my beige tights. The school insists that women
teachers wear tights or stockings at all times – no bare legs or
trousers. Up past my tartan miniskirt and red ribbed top which
today feels a bit tight. I’m glad I put on my proper makeup.
Plenty of mascara and a swish of purple eyeshadow with shiny
baby pink lipstick. Boys, I’m ready for you.
We make fierce eye contact.