I have the funds to retrain but no idea as what!!! Suggestions for someone who is very average academically.

[justanotherneighinparadise]

I was thinking about AAT training so joined the Facebook group but having watched for months I can see there is no way I’m academically gifted enough to be a book keeper/accountant. I could potentially push myself but I can tell it’s just too dry for me.

In terms of my strengths they are definitely in the realms of practical/creative. I’m not stupid, just maybe the high end of average. I’m mid forties. Would LOVE to get my teeth into some training now to launch a new career.

Thought I’d add that we’re in the very fortunate position in not needing my wage but I absolutely need to work for my own mental health. So whilst I’m not chasing a certain salary point I’d like to be useful again in society as well as earning my own money.

I don't have any suggestions. I'm just interested to see what others suggest.

I would choose a trade. Plumbing or electrical. Air conditioning technician perhaps. Dd is training to be a refrigeration technician. Massive shortage, she already has a job lined up once training is finished.

I’m also interested in suggestions. I’m in my early 50s, and some of my friends are retraining as counsellors, but I’m not sure I have the temperament for that (I know I don’t).

Do you like technology? IT security is a big future industry and an interesting one. Don't put yourself down by saying you're not academically gifted enough because sometimes people who aren't 'academic' as such can be very skilled in niche areas simply because they find it interesting. Data analysis is another area although in reality I'd say if you find accountancy bores you and is too difficult, you probably wouldn't thrive in that environment either.

Driving instructor?

Wedding photographer?

House clearance/de-clutterer?

Gardener/landscaper?

On a totally different theme, what about something environmental? Green energy, planning, or conservation?

I'm in the same boat. This year I'm planning on doing something along the lines of an access to HE just to ease myself back into learning. Probably just business or humanities to get started but longer term I want something more specific / focussed but I don't know what so I'm watching with interest! My DH has suggested AAT but I'm not too keen.

A trade - a reliable tradesperson makes a mint.

Radiographer - I believe it's a 2-year qualification.

Ooooh I’m already buzzing from everyone’s ideas! I am completely obsessed with health and would absolutely love to be able to train as a clinical herbalist but it is crazy crazy money and I’m not convinced I would earn that money back, particularly now that we’re heading into very gloomy financial days.

@wellthatsunusual

Do you like technology? IT security is a big future industry and an interesting one. Don't put yourself down by saying you're not academically gifted enough because sometimes people who aren't 'academic' as such can be very skilled in niche areas simply because they find it interesting. Data analysis is another area although in reality I'd say if you find accountancy bores you and is too difficult, you probably wouldn't thrive in that environment either.

Completely agree with what you say. When I’m interesting in a subject I’m a complete geek. But if it’s something that isn’t ‘my thing’ I just really struggle to engage with the subject to retain the information. I’ve never been a maths person so I just can’t see that I’d suddenly become gifted in that area.

Used to be very techy, I don’t think I am anymore sadly. I am immensely practical so a trade might suit.

@SeasonallySnowyPeasant radiography is a 3 year degree.
Great job with lots of options for further training, though very patient facing so bear that in mind.

What a great opportunity, I hope you find something you enjoy

If you don't need the income, what about choosing something more creative, such as drawing, jewellery making or similar?
Do you have any artistic leanings?

I was really interested in working with gems. I think there was a thread on here a year or so ago where someone had a niche job cutting diamonds. The issue is trying to find somewhere to train to do something very specialised.

Do you live anywhere that has a jewellery school/street/quarter? What an interesting (and yes, incredibly niche) line of work!

Dog groomer. They seem to be doing a bomb these days.
Eyelash/brow technician - same.

@nemeton

Do you live anywhere that has a jewellery school/street/quarter? What an interesting (and yes, incredibly niche) line of work!

I don’t think so. I’ll look it up though. I also did think of dog groomer etc but I honestly think that market is completely saturated.

Phlebotomist

Bumping in the hope of more ideas 🌸

Can't help I'm afraid, but I'd be interested to hear more thought and ideas.

Hi! I'm a careers adviser/coach firstly what did you originally get when you went to school? This will have an impact on where you start now (level of qualification). There are so many things to choose from but I would say look at vocational educations so trades such as Floristry, hair, beauty, construction etc they offer a more practical learning experience rather than academic. You may find depending on your age and previous qualifications that you get funding too.

What is it that you do now? If you would like more advice please let me know xx

A friend of DD's studied dietetics and said the course was 50% mature students, many who were having career changes/returning to work after children, the mature students seemed to do better overall on the course.

Operating theatre practitioner?

Along the lines of data analysis but more creative - what about geographic information science. It sounds niche but honestly so many companies employ specialists. Data analysis and visualisation together - lots of creativity in presenting information. If you have a flair for design it might be of interest to you. I work in the dry numbers side of data and have dabbled in a bit of qgis because making pretty maps is honestly quite fun

Environmental Health Officer? Its not just inspecting kitchens.