Struggling

[Anonymous20003000]

Hi,
I was put under a lot of pressure. Accused of many things even though I had no direct link to these colleagues or events. The final straw was when one day events from the start of the academic year were brought up and I had a panic attack once my collegues saw me and they left me in that state. I called my union and went to the doctor who both were shocked at the treatment I recieved and my gp immediately signed me off. I am also 6 months pregnant and last year i lost my baby at 5 months pregnant. I wanted to see the year through and I always went above and beyond but when I was spoken to in such a way I was shocked and disgusted. I don’t intend to return even after maternity leave. My anxiety now lies in what will I do after that? I am exhausted I have taught for 10 years. I’m worried I wont find a job outside of teaching. I wouldn’t mind tutoring and supply but I’m so worried I wont find anything. i don't mind a pay drop but just the anxiety of not finding anything makes me worried now. I got advice from friends and family who said that I should not return to my such a vile place but also to just focus on my health right now. But i just cant help thinking ahead. Has anyone been in a similar situation? Will things turn out okay?

I have been bullied at work in the past and it is horrible. So sorry it is happening to you, especially when you should be looking forward to your new arrival.

There are better places out there. Maybe when you've had your baby you could spend some time finding other options. I spent a lot of time visiting schools with vacancies and chose very carefully which to apply to. You could also explore less stressful options than teaching...

Thank you for your reply. I think I feel anxious I might not get a job again based on this school I went to. I mean the union said they cant give me a bad reference. I just hope not going back will create issues. We have 10 weeks left and I don’t think I can return. I will then start
maternity early September. Hope to hand in resignation in May next year to leave in the Summer. I feel sick at the though of ever taking a step in that building . I would love another job where I can work from home like I said I don’t mind tuitioning/ supply either.

As you're in a union, get them to negotiate an exit agreement with the school, including an agreed reference. That should help you deal with some of the anxiety?

It sounds like you have been very badly treated, so your rep should have some leverage. If your rep isn't experienced in doing this, ask them to contact their branch for support.

I know it's easy to say, but really don't worry about the future. Supply will always be there for you to get a foot back in the door. Also, if you don't ever want to step foot in the school again- don't. Get your union to represent you.

Things will definitely, definitely turn out ok. I promise. Concentrate on YOU and your baby.

Thank you for your replies. My school doesn’t have a union rep ( red flag right there). I think based on my own well being I will remain signed off until July and then start maternity leave from september. I will hand in resignation of May next year so I don’t return to that place again. I havent been able to sleep since I signed off. But i know my health and baby’s are important. We tried for 5 years with losses along the way.

I say this all the time, baby first. Nobody from work cares about you more than you do! I hope all goes well with you baby. It is natural to feel anxious about your career. There is a school/job out there that is the right fit. One step at a time. 😘

You’re right. I’m just hurt how no one took my health in to consideration. I have to put this baby first. I just keep replaying the situation in my head . I still think i am in shock.