Advice on doing the right thing........

[Panyanpickle77]

Hi ladies, I desperately need your advice. I have been a SAHM for the last 5.5 years, and am (finally) planning on returning to work. However, this is where my predicament starts. In my heart I realy really really want to train as a midwife (3 year degree). Its something that I have a massive interest in, but worry that it will take me away from my kids and husband too much, and financially 3 years is a long time to be in training. Because of this I have applied to become a teacher. I know I can do this role, I love the kids and I only need to complete a 1 year pgce, but my desire to do this is nowhere near as strong as midwifery. Teaching ticks all the boxes for spending time with the kids and husband (ie weekends and school holidays) but I feel I am denying my true feelings in order to make sure my families needs are met. It all sounds very clear cut, but I am really struggling and would appreciate any advice you can give (or personal experience).........HELP!

[Panyanpickle77]

Ahhh have just realised I probably posted at the wrong time (school run lol). Can you tell I have dd off school with chicken pox

[Expectant]

Probably seems an easy choice from an outsider looking in but if you have the chance to follow your 'dream' career in terms of re-training etc now then I say go for it. Better to have a job that you love than be miserable in one that you can do but are not as comfortable with. I'm sure that the kids and husband would also be better with a happy motivated Mum too.

Just my opinion...

[cmotdibbler]

Follow your heart. Your family will cope, but if you deny yourself the thing you really want to do, you'll always have a little bit that resents that.

I don't know whether you can do it in Midwifery, but in some healthcare roles now, you can work as a healthcare assistant and do a work based qualification/degree - I know a few radiography assistants getting qualified this way. Have found some info here.
That way you're working as well as training, and I'm told it often suits 'mature' students more.

[Reamhar]

Can you do the Midwife course on a part time basis, maybe over 6 years? If that's not possible I still think you should consider doing the midwife course if it's truly what you want to do. My own mother completed her nurse training when I was approx 10, and my little sister was 5. I don't remember any feelings of abandonment or missing out on time with her. It was, however, hard work for her, but it allowed her to finish the training that my unintended entry into the word interrupted when she was in her 20's.