Story 84

Age: 30

Teaching Experience: 0-1 years

Contract Type: Casual Supply (through calls, emails, teacherbooker etc)

I left a good job with the civil service in 2020 aged 26 to go to uni and do BA ED Primary studies – my dream but I hadn’t had the right timing until then.

Uni was a strange experience – covid times!Last year I did my probation, it was hell for various reasons but it made me the person I am today which is resilient, strong, and proud so for that I am grateful.I applied for central recruitment, interviewed and was rejected – feedback was minimal, 16 words in total.

A week later I was emailed to say I was top of the rejections and now they were in a position to offer me a job.

Last day of term…job offer came through. 1 day per week.

Everyday I apply for all of supply that comes through and get nothing. I’ve applied for dozens of jobs on my job Scotland and had one interview. I’ve worked 4 days since August.I started this career because I want to make a life for my daughter and partner. I want them to be proud of me and all I feel is guilt for leaving a good well paying job to now being skint and struggling to pay bills. I’ve started applying for jobs outwith education because this isn’t working for us and my mental health is on the decline too.Anyone I speak to says ‘oh I thought they were crying out for teachers’ ‘oh there’s always supply’.

I’ve completed one year and I don’t know how much longer I can continue.