Going from 0.8 to full time

[makemineadecaf]

I'm making the switch after Christmas and obviously love the fact I'll be up 20% salary but suddenly freaking out about stress levels.

As it is I already have full responsibility of my class (reports, displays, parent meetings etc etc) and I plan for my day off too so workload shouldn't in theory be more. But that one day is my circuit breaker if that makes sense. Headspace is so important. Anyone else gone back full time with any pearls of wisdom? Having one day to clean, get on top of washing, GP, dentist etc general life admin so it doesn't eat into the weekend, that'll all obviously go.

I went from 0.6 to full time. I got a cleaner!

When I went from four days to five, I decided that really teachers should have a four day weekend; one day to flop, one day for household chores and shopping, one day to do school planning and one to go out somewhere and enjoy yourself. I think what got me initially was how tired I was. But I survived and so will you! I think the fact that you already have full class responsibility should make it less of a problem. I didn't need a cleaner as wonderful DH stepped up.

I went from 0.8 to full time. No real pearls of wisdom unfortunately. I do miss having a Friday off. Like you, that one day just gave me a bit of extra time and some breathing space. However, I always worked on my Fridays off at home, but didn't get paid, so at least you get paid your full salary. You just adapt I think and get used to having less time. Family members now have to step in and help with housework and other things. If it gets too much, take a few days off ill to catch up. At least you get paid a full salary I guess.

Thanks. I have a cleaner and do online food shopping. The kids are at my school so we all go and leave together which is a bonus. The extra day also means more staff discount off fees so on paper it's a no brainer. I just want the day to myself!

I think the fact that you already plan for the day means it will be a minimal difference. Look at it this way - 39 more teaching days a year for 20% more money! Plus Fridays are often a bit more fun and relaxed in primary school, and you can often get work finished, catch up on bits and bobs. To be honest, it doesn't make sense to me to have to plan a day and then not be paid to teach it.

This was me 2 years ago. I'm still full time. I've learnt to relax on a few things (we have a ridiculous marking policy that is not kept to as much as it was). It was definitely a bit bumpy at first and a cleaner is a must.

I found my relationships with the children were so much better even with an extra day. But as I now work the Friday I get to do more of the fun events that happen with them which helps.

I think it's easier being full time if you're able to get in an hour early and stay an hour later. I take very little work home.