I'm considering a return to teaching after a long break of 13 years. I didn't mean to leave the profession for so long. I was made redundant and the posts offered to me didn't suit my lifestyle at the time (with three young children- one with health needs ATT). As I've been busy, the years have passed by quickly.
I first set up a childcare business running creches, playgroups and a small nursery. Then I had my fourth and last child. On Mat Leave, I started blogging as a hobby and it accidentally became the work-from-home business I still run today. I do enjoy it, but now my kids are older I feel like I want to get out there again and work with others (in real life!) and be a part of the community. In England, there seems to be a good return to teaching scheme, but I'm based in Wales.
I have noticed adverts from "Educators Wales" about getting people into teaching, so I've been in touch with them. They suggested volunteering in local schools or getting back on the supply list, so I'm looking into both of these options. I've reregistered with EWC and started reading curriculum documents and modern pedagogy books to update myself. I was a Primary School Teacher (with subject specialism, Maths), and they confirmed that I am qualified to also teach Secondary Maths, which is something I am interested in. They also suggested I apply for a Secondary Maths role currently being advertised at a school close to me. I am thinking of applying for it for the experience.
However, now the reality of actually applying for jobs etc is making me realise how much I've lost my confidence in myself. I know, I have the qualifications and I'm not too rusty with the subject (thanks to my own children's GCSEs plus private tutoring GCSE and A Level Maths students) BUT I can't help hearing a voice saying "You're just a mum now", and feeling this is how everyone sees me so I shouldn't go for it. I know impostor syndrome is common I just wondered if anyone else felt this after a long break. Should I go for it, or is it too late?
(Also, I'm well aware of the challenges of working within schools currently but I know I'll regret it if I reach retirement age and I've not returned to the classroom at least to try it for myself again).