I am returning to teaching following a 9 year break. I have been in touch with a couple of agencies and it seems positive that I will be able to start up with them without recent experience. I am just a little concerned as a third agency who are one of the leading providers have said that they cannot sign me up due to the gap. They have advised for me to work 2 months minimum voluntary in a school as a teacher so that I can get a recent school reference. They suggested signing up as TA, but said that this wouldn't lead to teaching opportunities as would need recent teaching reference.
This has left me feeling quite disheartened as I can't afford to work unpaid for several months, but am really wanting to return to the profession. I originally took a break due to personal reasons not related to my job. Unfortunately, the break has been longer than intended due to covid/ having children.
I have kept myself up to date with Education and would feel confident to return to EYFS which I taught for 6- 7 years.
Has anyone had any experience of this before to offer any advice?
Thanks so much.