To think every school is just toxic to work in now

[Freesiasforthewin]

Can you tell me that there are schools out there that aren’t? Feeling very sad and disheartened about the future of my career and that of other hard working educators.

Schools vary hugely and there are definitely good, supportive places out there imo.

It was the same teaching in FE.

I’ve worked in three schools and loved all of them. All very large secondaries. Schools, like any work place, can vary hugely.

In fact, I regret bothering to focus so much of my later career on studying 3 different qualifications for teaching.

Maybe not colleagues on the “shop floor” but SLT and academy big guns?

It's rare but they do exist. I can, hand on heart, say that my school is so incredibly wonderful. I'm very lucky to have such amazing colleagues and SLT. The kids are incredible too

At this rate, there's not even much difference between state and independent. Both are totally starved of funds.
State schools have been horribly constricted for years now (even decades) and independents are feeling the squeeze too. The budget decisions don't seem to have created any money for either.

Mine isn’t. But it isn’t a huge secondary academy either.

It’s not the kids, the majority are a joy. They are what makes the job worth doing.

@Dangermoo I’m at a crossroads where I’m considering leaving the profession completely before I’m next on the hit list. I’ve got at least 20 years of working before I can think about retiring.

I've never worked with an SLT, that wasn't up their own arse. Supportive? No chance. You were sold down the river so they could progress up the career ladder.

I work in a secondary as part of an academy chain and my SLT are wonderful. I’ve been around the block enough to know that not all schools are. I left for a while. But I am back to being really happy with a work life balance in a wonderful school

Change schools before completely leaving

Private school maybe?

@DancingHippos would that be any different? I’m Primary.

I work on a very small school. We are part of a federation and only have SLT on site once a week. We all get on well (the teachers and SLT) and work well as a team, there is often friction between the TAs though.

I don’t think they are all the same. Both my SIL and niece are teachers (1 primary and 1 secondary) and they say they have great colleagues and supportive leadership.

I’m in a specialist setting and it’s the best most supportive school I’ve worked in. Maybe change schools. There are fab ones out there.

Another one who is very happy with her school. Don’t always agree with SLT but they are kind and supportive. Everyone (mostly) gets on really well on the whole. C of E primary in a deprived area - and we just had a relatively non stressful OFSTED. We are out there.

I think schools and certain roles attract a type. You may have to move a few times to find the right fit though. Best wishes.

Look up this Facebook group if you'd like some help leaving - Get out of teaching - Exit the Classroom and Thrive. Over 100k members.

My school is so lovely, I’ve worked there for 15 years (teacher). Not toxic at all. I promise, they do exist!

I work in a one form entry primary school. It’s a lovely workplace and very supportive. Unless something massive changes then I wouldn’t choose to leave any time soon.

The decline in support since we converted has rendered us unrecognisable in terms of staff wellbeing and any kind of humanity. Staff are replaceable and just a number!

I’m really happy to hear so many positive comments about your lovely schools and management. It does give me some hope.