A semi-job for early semi-retirement...

[MangoApple]

Hoping to retire in 3-4 years. I'll be 55 and we are going to move to the country.

I'm ready to give up my busy FT job but I like the idea of doing something, maybe starting a little business, doing some writing/studying or getting a PT very different job.

I'm a lawyer by profession but don't want to carry on doing that. Interests are nature, cooking, reading, music and I love spending time with children. It would be nice to make a bit of money but I won't be relying on it for my income.

I wondered about being a part time TA but would I need qualifications for that?

I've also thought about fostering but not sure whether DH would be up for it, and obviously that would be a much bigger commitment.

WWYD?

Reading volunteer
school governer
magistrate
archive volunteer, especially with your knowledge of court records
lollipop person

Invigilator in the local senior school. Very part time!

I’m doing the semi retired thing I’m a TA and do three days a week and love it. Went in completely unqualified and said so at the interview. It’s hugely rewarding and three days is enough for me. I’ve done courses since through the job.

A TA isn't a semi job. It's bloody full on with a shit load of training for little pay!

Fair point, the job itself is not a semi job, and the pay is terrible, I went in knowing this. For me though it’s allowed me to have less hours and do more rewarding work.

Just retire there will be lots to do without work.

Do some OU courses, creative writing, music or anything else you fancy.

library relief, or part time library assistant, if you still have staffed libraries.

I retired from a career in HR at 55. Retrained in horticulture (lifelong passion) with the RHS, moved to a seaside town and ran my own small, PT gardening business. I loved it!

Special needs school, children care homes are always looking for staff, I'm sure you'll be able to find some PT work in those. The pay is scandalously low though, I think.

Citizens Advice Bureau. I did it part time in-between employment and apart from the satisfaction of helping so many people you learn a lot about different areas of life. If nothing else it would be a great start to send you in the path you're looking for.

I intend to be a part time volunteer lock keeper when I retire 😁😁

Volunteer with the Wildlife Trusts. They are always on the lookout.

TA is a good option. Lots of schools will be happy to employ you two or three days a week.

Clerk to governors. ( school governing body).

Our LA clerks are part time and can pick up as many schools as they can manage. Paid.