To even consider applying for another job

[Mammiemaw]

Aibu? I mostly like my current role, just had a sort of promotion ( increase in responsibilities and very slight wage increase) after asking for more for many years. I have a great team around me and genuinely consider at least some of my colleagues true friends. But even with wage increase it's not by any means well paid, and i can't really go any further up the ladder.
I have seen a job with slight wage drop (but more hours to counter that). It is my dream job. What I wanted to be as a child. Also I have just applied to open university and this would tie in with my chosen course.
Should I apply and risk leaving a job I like and where the hours fit in round children for this chance at my dream?

Sorry this is long but so as not to drip feed- there are my changes good and bad looming in my current industry but very exciting expansion prospects for our actual company which I have been closely involved in negotiating/organising

And I know IABU for posting in AIBU but here for the traffic

Go for your dream job! If you're really friends with your colleagues then you can continue to be friends once you leave. And they will leave eventually anyway.

Don't stay somewhere unsuitable for a misplaced sense of loyalty.

Thanks Reading . I am terrible at making decisions and so usually end up not doing anything to avoid potential regrets later (which usually results in regret at missing chances) .
Application pack downloaded now! May not get far through recruitment process but will give it a go anyway.

Excellent, best of luck! I don't know when your last interview was but if you get invited to interview write down as many questions as you can think of based on the JD and make sure you speak to someone on the phone maybe 15 minutes before your interview so that you're social and chatty when you get in and aren't starting a conversation "cold". I've found these things help me especially if I haven't had an interview in a year or two.

Thanks for the tips. It has been about 10 years since my last interview, so I'm a bit rusty to say the least.

A voice of caution. I was happy enough in my old job and have moved for what I thought might be a good opportunity and a change. Turns out my last job was actually my dream job. Grass is always greener OP - just take some time to think about what you have.

Ooh then definitely do a practice interview!

You should always apply. Applying isnt the same as getting an interview or being offered a job.