Soooooo had enough now

[BG2015]

Teaching for 28 years in primary. Mostly in KS1/EYFS but also some KS2.

Had 9 months off in 2021-22 for breast cancer. Now got ongoing health issues too which are affecting my ability to teach and my attendance is dire. 20 days off sick since September.

Got very little love for the job anymore. Just not interested in the Ofsted pressure, parental expectations etc.

I've worked in my current school since 2021. It's a lovely village school. SLT are supportive and realistic but they're still management at the end of the day .

I'm currently 0.8 and class sharing with a fabulous, enthusiastic young teacher who works far too hard.

I'm 55 and am just worn out with all the crap.

Don't know why I'm posting this, just to moan really.

Think I'll be applying for ill health retirement in the not too distant future.

I'm sorry to hear that OP. It's a hard job.

I know many who have been in your position. Recovering from an illness like you have definitely gives a different perspective in life. I have nothing to say other than to wish you well.

Thanks 🙏🏻

And if you can afford it I would definitely stop if I were in your position.

Don't blame you. I do a 2 day job share and that's more than enough - I supply on the other days.

My parents were both primary school teachers and my dad stopped at about 50 and did supply and my mum retired at 55 - the job nearly broke both of them. Fortunately they're having a wonderful retirement.

Can you afford to take your pension and lump sum now and top it up with some casual work?

I too had had enough and 'retired' last summer at 55. I honestly felt like a weight had been lifted off me and even now it's a relief at not having to work at that intensity any more. I top my pension up with exam invigilating.

I hadn't been ill like you but my family suffered a sudden and tragic bereavement and it put things into perspective for me.
Life is just too short.

I hope things improve for you and you stay well.

We have just sold our house and are downsizing as I need to be mortgage free in order to finish work.

I have been honest with my head teacher today and have said I can't do my job as well as I once could and he's aware that ill health retirement may be something I have to do if my health doesn't improve.