Retraining as a midwife in 30s with young kids....

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Wondering if I'm totally insane to be considering walking away from my very flexible, very well paid, part time job to consider retraining as a midwife?

It's been my dream for AS LONG as I can remember. Honestly, I dream about it every single day.

Currently undertaking GCSE Maths and wanting to start my Access to Midwifery course next September.

Has anyone completely this course, with small children whilst also working part time?

I'm mainly concerned about lack of income while at uni for 3 years but will deal with that when we get to that point! Also concerned about looking after two very young children while st studying full time. It feels really unachieveable but I'm hoping where there is a will there is a way!

I did it in my 30’s with 2 kids & whilst working part time. You need bomb proof childcare, a good supportive partner/family & lots of energy & enthusiasm. It’s tough, really tough, you’re expected to work the same shift pattern as your mentors, so that’s nights, weekends, bank holidays.

When qualified, the stress is unreal, you’ll often go home worrying about patients. You’ll be expected to work Xmas day & regularly be working 12hr night shifts. Fixed shift patterns & flexi working are non existent in most acute trusts. I loved it & still remember some of the most magical births. But, I only managed 4 years before I caved & did health visiting as it’s more family friendly.

Good Luck.

There's always a way! I'm not a student midwife but a student AHP. The main issue I have is around placements. You will be expected to work the same shifts as your mentor / educator, so normally 12/13 hour day and night shifts, including weekends. So getting reliable childcare is a must. I found my employer (NHS) wouldn't give me time off to go on placements so I had to hand in my notice for my contracted job and go on the bank. In many ways this suits me better due for the flexibility but I hate the uncertainty of it. It won't be easy but it will definitely be possible.

Thanks both!

I find the thought daunting.

But I find the thought of staying in a career I don't care about even worse!