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Whether you're a permanent teacher, supply teacher or student teacher, you'll find others in the same situation on our Staffroom forum.

Learning Mentor Position

5 replies

Flickstar · 25/03/2015 16:27

I have been a secondary teacher for ten years and have been a HoD and HoY during this time. I went back to work part-time after my first DC but it wasn't an option after having my second- long commute, heavy work load and part time refused.

I am currently on mat leave and have already resigned from my current post as the resignation date was in Jan (international school but in UK). I have seen a couple of part-time learning mentor positions close to home that I would like to apply for but I am not sure how to phrase the opening paragraph of the application letter. How do I say that I basically want an easier job after having my children?! Will it look odd that I am applying for these positions with my experience?

Thanks in advance, I am, so rubbish at letters of application!

OP posts:
leccybill · 26/03/2015 08:13

I'm thinking of doing this too after 10 years of teaching. I did a Learning Mentor course at a local college in the evenings last year.

I think it's believable to say you are more interested in the stories behind the children than the figures. Especially given that you've already held a pastoral role.
Depending on your subject, you may be snapped up as not only can you identify barriers to learning, you can put intervention strategies together and even deliver some of them.

JellyJar · 26/03/2015 08:17

I know at least 3 quite senior teachers who are now working as TAs because being a ft teacher is no longer compatible with family life so I wouldn't worry too much.

You could also say that you want a new challenge and to apply your skills in a new way. I expect you'll be snapped up Smile

Flickstar · 26/03/2015 10:50

Thanks both, I'll keep you posted.

OP posts:
Labradiddly · 26/03/2015 18:21

I used the phrase 'work-life balance' quite a lot when changing from a teaching to a non-teaching role, to explain why I was applying. I'm much happier now.

3Kids3 · 27/03/2015 15:52

Learning mentor roles aren't necessarily easier just different. You will be working with the most vulnerable children in the school- often those with significant emotional needs. A lot of child psychotherapists start as learning mentors!

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