Story 42

Age: 38

Teaching Experience: 2-4 years

Contract Type: Unemployed due to no jobs

Began my teaching career in 2020. Had one year out on supply where I was lucky to pick up some longer term jobs. I then went on maternity leave and  did the block interview with the intention of returning August 2023.

My baby was born in May 2023 and many of my friends and family thought this was bonkers but I wanted to return as quickly as possible in order to try and secure a permanent post.

I was lucky and got a fixed term contact for 1 year. This was challenging to say the least but I always had the long term goal of getting a permanent role in my mind. I sat the next round of block interviews this year and unfortunately haven’t received any work from the council.

I have sadly now had to look else where for employment with a young family at home and a mortgage and bills to pay I simply cannot wait around with the hope of work. If someone had told me this would have been the outcome of my hard work and effort I would never have gone into teaching. I sacrificed so much time with my new born baby last year hoping it would pay off and unfortunately it hasn’t.

I love the job and the kids but the impact the insecurity and worry has had on my mental health has been awful.