further research and end up realising that the school isn't necessarily a cesspit just because it advertises during the cricket season. Then at interview the following dialogue might take place, as between two honest and rational beings: VICTIM: Mr Dude, I hope you don't mind my asking why you are seeking to fill this post at this late stage? DUDE: Certainly not. Our excellent long-serving Mathematician Mr Karvol won the EuroMillions lottery just after the IB exams, and handed in his resignation with immediate effect in order to dedicate himself full time to his extra-curricular interests in Thailand and Brazil. May I ask, in turn, if you have been applying for many overseas jobs and why you are still available at this balmy time of year? VICTIM: Why, of course. I'm happy and respected at Nempnett Thrubwell Comprehensive, but for some years now I have been interested in teaching in Ruritania and at your school in particular, so when I saw your ad I went straight to my Head and said, " I realise it is late in the school year, but I shall be applying for this job I've seen, and she was like, "only craap schools advertise in June and you'll never get a job back in the UK..." But my primary and secondary heads and I actually enjoy the process of filtering candidates. And we are much better at it than the agency staff. More later - you have been warned. Posts like this keep my hope