40yrs too old for exhausting teaching career?

[DoIWannaBeATeacher]

Hi all,

Can anyone point me in the direction of how and where to start and give any basic advice.

I have probably always wanted to be a teacher. I understand that it comes with a lot of shit and that shit is increasing.

I understand that it consumes plenty of hours outside of the teaching contract and that it is hard to juggle with a small family.

I understand it is poorly paid.

I have no direct experience working in a school, though have been a Governor and done plenty of observations. I have HEd and followed the NC whilst doing so. I have worked in Education in a non-teaching capacity (LA policy) for many years and have extensive knowledge of SEN, G&T and data systems (i.e. FFT & RaiseOnline) in that regard. I have volunteered for parent reading and swimming and been class rep. I have been the 'service user' of a number of schools as have moved quite a bit.

I thought I was fairly bright but the recruitment process confuses me no end. We are currently breaking even at home so I'd need a salary or bursary to pay for childcare.

I would really appreciate any advice, insight or pitfalls.

I have a degree in psychology. I would prefer primary (particularly KS2) but not against secondary.

Many TIA

You could consider sixth form Psychology. I started teaching Economics as an unqualified teacher and did a GTP on the job. I was 40 and pregnant at the time. The entry process is v confusing but write down everything useful people tell you and you'll find a way. Consider independent/grammars for less nonsense...

It does take energy but no more than other jobs I've done.

I would research the jobs market in your area. Where I live there would be no point in training in primary as you would find it difficult to get a job. However if you were trained in maths or science at secondary level you would be snapped up and even find enhancements and recruitment and retention points on offer, especially in the inner city secondary schools.

With your degree in psych would you consider Educational Psychology? I know it's another 3 years BUT you can get paid some money plus its nowhere near as stressful as teaching.

Ed Psych at UCL