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Do any Mumsnetters feel less academic or career-focused than most posters?

2 replies

OnaSaturdayin1999 · 15/03/2026 12:31

I enjoy frequenting Mumsnet and have done so for a couple of decades but in recent years I have distinctly felt like the 'under-educated/poorer relative' (I do say that lightheartedly though).

Many on here appear to be very high achievers having climbed educational and career ladders, with their dc doing the same.

No criticism at all. Having a thirst for knowledge is a great thing to possess but we are all different and all go down different paths in life although it does appear to me that the majority on here are amongst the UK's highest earners and have higher levels of education than the majority (Google tells me approx 40% of UK youngsters go to uni), so I was wondering if there were any MNetters who don't fit that bill?

I hated secondary school (since diagnosed as ND in adult life). I left secondary school and went straight into work as I just could not imagine a uni life would work for me. DH did the same, as have most of our friends and family members although a few of my friends have been to uni and so are their dc but the majority have not.

My dc will turn 18 and 21 this year. DS is mildly autistic and struggled at school, just like his father he is very practical and has done very well in his chosen line of work and is currently doing an apprenticeship. DD is at college and has no desire to go to uni, she is hoping to also find an apprenticeship in the next few years.

I am not bemoaning btw, we have built a lovely life from just working rather than having any major careers, we own our own home and have a happy life.

I am simply wondering if there are many on here who can relate to my life, did you leave school and go straight into work and what are your dc doing or likely to do?

OP posts:
Highlandgal · 15/03/2026 14:00

I hated secondary school and left at 16. Did a business studies course at college then worked in admin until I had my children. I was never really career oriented and was a STAHM until my sons started secondary school. I went back to admin work part time until I took early retirement 3 years ago. Both my children did go to uni (as did my husband) but we never pushed them and would have been happy whatever route they took. Each to their own but I think I’ve led a more privileged and less stressful life than those who are constantly juggling work, childcare etc. We own our home (no mortgage), go on nice holidays and generally enjoy life.

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