I don't know what's next for me

[Pigwidgeon99]

I taught primary for two years before taking a break from it - to be honest I really struggled with the stress of the job, the workload, all the usual things you hear on here. Did various other things but didn't settle to anything then had children and ended up having 5 years out. I ended up taking a job as a TA to get back into work - hours/ holidays fit around kids and I knew I could do the job. I love it, but the pay is terrible. I also know I could do more. I'm particularly interested in send support and pastoral care. I have a degree in psychology. I had been considering training as an ed psych but I'm not sure I have the confidence to put myself forward for it or the time to devote to it given I have 3 primary age kids, two with SEN. I love working with children and feel I have developed so many skills over the years... But I'm mentally exhausted dealing with behaviour all day for minimum wage and have many a day where I consider applying for an office job that pays more and booking holiday clubs! I'm just not sure what other options are out there. Does anyone have suggestions or know if there is anywhere teachers can get any career advice?

A tough situation and I do not have much advice. People will tell you to consider staying in education as you will never need childcare holidays, but you will always be a low earner as a TA and there is little scope for progression. If you change careers you will not have holidays but you can aspire to more money in 5 years time. It is just so sad that support roles in schools are paid so poorly, especially TA but also pastoral support roles. It is truly shocking, many people with a passion for support roles simply choose alternative roles outside of education as it is just not viable financially.

I completely agree. I actually really love the job, I think I'm making a real difference to the children I work with. It's so full on though and I often find myself going in early and staying late just to keep up with it which makes the pay even worse! The fact it's full time means I don't have any time to just collect my thoughts and I think between the children I work with and my own children, I really need that. Every support staff role I've seen advertised is full time in term time unfortunately. It would be great to find something more flexible. Thanks for replying!

There are quite a few facebook groups for life after teaching, I'm sure there will be lots of useful advice there!