Returning to work, 5 years sahm

[SeekingBalance]

Hi there
I'm looking for some advice, seeking anyone in a similar situation.
I have over 15 years of experience in education, mainly early years. I have done every role possible and decided to complete a degree with the goal of becoming a teacher. Two children and now a completed degree, teaching really doesn't have the initial appeal to me that it first did.
My absolute, most rewarding role was as an lsa in an academy primary. I loved that job, but I feel silly completing such a tough challenge for myself personally, to then not make the most of it.

Ideally, I'd like to return to work come September. Eldest will be at school and youngest will be 18 months, so I do have some thinking time. My biggest issue is the money and how shocking it is, although I am also aware that good money doesn't come easily.

I'm rambling, but I'd be grateful to hear from anyone who can offer an advise or experience on the matter. A close friend of mine loves her job as a primary teacher, however she is adamant she won't return after having their first child, as she feels the additional hours teachers clock up in the evening just wouldn't work around a baby.
TIA
Tracy.

You could try Supply Work. Pay isn't great. It would give you a means of earning while deciding if you still want to be a teacher or retrain to do something else.
What is your degree subject? Many roles will accept any degree subject.
Does your local authority have any SEN caseworker roles? (Placing children in appropriate schools, reviewing EHCPs etc). This would use your experience but give you defined hours. It may still be difficult to switch off though.

I think you would be crazy to take a job as a ta after all that work. You could earn more part time teacher than full time ta. Do that.

Hi!
Similar situation but less experience. I did 4 years of teaching then had my son. I've been out of work for 6 years and been volunteering on and off in schools.
My youngest is 13 months and I'm looking at going back at some point but just can't work out what's best to do.

I totally hear you about the madness of working so hard to then take a step back, but, in this area in particular the teaching hours are so unfriendly for those who take the bulk of childcare.

I have a couple of meetings lined up for assessing work, teenagers completing their childcare qualification. More opportunity to work from home if need be.

Could you afford to look for a TA job and do that for a few months and then consider teaching?

Would you be doing the nursery drop offs, cooking, cleaning and sick days with your children or would your partner be doing his share?

If you wait longer than 5 years you lose the final salary link in your pension scheme from before 2015.

If you go back before 5 years have passed then your FS pension will be based on your final salary when you do finally finish...be that in a year from now or 20 years.

If you go back after 5 years then your FS pension will be based on the final salary that you had at the time of the break.