John: Hello Al, you coping ok?
Al: Hi there! Snowed under John, same as you, I'm sure!
John: I'll be so pleased when this bloody term is over!
Al: You and me both! 
John: God! Just remembered we scheduled some revision classes at Easter, so bang goes the second week off!
Al: Oh yes, what joy! We're going to Sara's parents in Leicester for the first week, so I won't be able to pull out my books and laptop there much!
John: Oh yes, the parents-in-law holiday visit, lovely! Don't worry lad, we've got revision stuff all prepped from last year, you should have been sent the file by Brian or Hilary.
Al: Oh, I'll dig it out, (if it's there!) and have a read over it next week.
John: Oh shit, I remember Romeo isn't on there, we didn't do it last year, someone's going to have to write up some sheets for it! I'll mention it to Hilary tomorrow in the staff meeting.
Al: Should I offer to do it?
John: Yeah, if you're up for it! It'll earn you some Brownie points with Hilary and Senior staff when it comes to renewing your contract. 
Al: OK, then, I'll tell her tomorrow at the meeting.
John: Good idea, I haven't got your youthful energy!
Al: Well, I really need to be kept on, we want to start trying for a baby soon!
John: Are you nuts!? No, seriously, you definitely need to be in a secure job first.
Al: When will they decide about my contract, John?
John: After Easter I should think. I'll put a word in, of course, as I'm your line manager.
Al: You're a pal, John, thanks! 
John: Better get back to marking Of Mice and Men, then, the excitement might kill me, though!
Al: I've been running through the themes with my middle group, they are not exactly bright sparks, are they?
John: Had then last year, they may surprise you come exam time, mind! They don't say a lot, but some of their work is promising.
Al: Hmm, maybe, anyway, see you at the meeting first thing!
John: Right, bye!
John will be working his second week off. Al is visiting his parents-in-law. Al will write some sheets for the revision material. John will put a good word in for Al. 