Capability. Had to resign. No job for September. Desperate and don't know what to do :(

[NoHopeToday]

I've been a teacher for over 15 years, but after a new head started in September it's all gone wrong.

I was out on a support plan after Easter and was told I'd be going on to capability (formal) after May half term if I didn't resign. I had union advice, but the only 'settlement' they would agree to was for me to resign. It wouldn't go to formal and they'd write a decent reference.

I wholeheartedly disagree with the faults they found, but it was my word against SLT and no hope to fight.

So now. I have no job after August, hardly anything is being offered and I am so, so worried about money. We live in an expensive area due to husband's job (can't move for 2 years at least), so any job won't pay the bills.

What can I do? I hear of people finding jobs after leaving, but I don't even know where to start. I only ever wanted to teach, but the last year has been hell. I'm no longer stressed at work, but I'm awfully stressed about finding a job.

[Rainbowcolours1]

Go on supply, it will help you find schools you like and feel comfortable in. It will be scary to start with but there are jobs out there. Look at the supply agencies that are in your area and see which ones you like. Set up the interviews etc so you can be ready to get going in September. They might already have schools needing some long term supply.

[rollonthesummer]

Yep-sign up for supply now.

I've just been looking at the local job website-it's really wierd. Nothing is being advertised for September at all; this time last year there were tonnes of jobs being advertised.

[Maidupmum]

If you're anywhere near me, Im looking for teachers - East Anglia

[BringOnTheScience]

First ...this time last year I was you. You WILL get through this!

Second... it doesn't have to be classroom teaching. Think of every place that you have ever gone to on a school trip or every organisation that has visited your school. Big companies have outreach teams. Universities and colleges do liaison with schools. Museums. Attractions. They all employ teachers and often on excellent salaries.

[123rd]

I'm not a teacher but on the local authority website there are LOTS of teaching jobs. Obvs you have your subject/ speciality. Which we don't know what it is.
I would spin the supply work to your advantage. As PP said you get to check out other schools etc
Are you 100% sure you want to carry on teaching ? I know lots of long term teachers who are leaving. Such a massive shame.

[showergel1]

Supply. Lots of roles for September as schools have left it too late to get a permanent person for a September start.

Day to day supply is also great for getting your confidence back. No stressing about working walls, emails, last minute meetings or observations. Just teaching. I love it.

[Calyrical]

It's a nightmare, OP.

Don't worry, this has happened to so many people.

There are still jobs going especially if you live in an expensive area, or try supply, you won't be out of work.

[TheSolitaryBoojum]

What everyone else has said. Supply will give you an income, the flexibility you need to recover and the absolute freedom that you need to thrive. Nothing quite like knowing that it's your choice to stay, return or move on.

[NoHopeToday]

Thank you, all of you.

I have an 'interview' with a supply agency on Thursday and have been signed up by another one (low pay, so am hoping for the other one that pays to MPS scale).

Still nervous, but hopefully won't be destitute!

Does anyone know how working tax credits work? I might be eligible for them again...