If you are considering returning to the teaching profession, it's important to ensure that you are prepared and up to date with the application process before you begin. Did you take a career break, or parental leave? Perhaps you decided to embark on a different career pathway, or simply felt the call to return to the classroom? Whatever your reasons, the decision to return to teaching after time away requires careful consideration and preparation. In this article, we'll discuss the different aspects for qualified teachers to consider to ensure you feel confident and prepared. With refreshed skills and knowledge and access to support and resources we can help you land your dream teaching role. So, let's dive in and discover what you need to know before making this significant decision.
Key teacher takeaways
- Reflect on your personal motivations and evaluate whether returning to teaching aligns with your goals and values
- Update your skills and knowledge through professional development courses, conferences, and workshops
- Seek support from fellow educators, teaching associations, and online communities
- Familiarise yourself with the changes in education since your previous teaching experience
- Establish clear goals, build positive relationships, embrace flexibility, and seek feedback for a successful return
- Overcome challenges by developing effective problem-solving and communication skills and seeking support from colleagues and mentors
- Enjoy the rewarding experiences of positively impacting students' lives and celebrating your impact on their educational journeys
The Decision to Return to Teaching - What's your Motivation?
Before applying for teaching roles, it's important for former teachers to consider why you want to return to teaching after a career break in the first place? Is it your passion for education and the desire to make a difference in young people's lives that has inspired you to return to the classroom? Are there financial reasons? Do you miss the excitement and challenges of the classroom environment? Exploring your reasons can be helpful to keep you motivated and ensure you make an informed, empowered decision.
Additionally, consider factors such as job satisfaction, work-life balance, and professional development opportunities. Reflecting on your previous teaching experience and what it was about teaching you loved, and found fulfilling is important.
Conversely, also consider what you didn't like about teaching and what you found the most challenging. Assessing your career goals and how a return to teaching can help you achieve them will provide clarity during this decision-making process.
Refreshing Your Skills and Knowledge
Even if you already have qualified teacher status, it's important to acknowledge that the education landscape is constantly evolving, with new teaching methods, technologies, and updates to the national curriculum emerging regularly. It's therefore important to update your skills and knowledge before you begin the application process. If you feel you could do with a refresh, consider enrolling in professional development courses, attending conferences and workshops, and staying engaged with current teaching practices.
In the ever-changing landscape of education, emphasising the importance of lifelong learning is crucial. By continually seeking ways to enhance your skills and adapt to new practices, you ensure that you are equipped to excel in today's dynamic classroom environment.
If you are feeling uncertain about your decision to return to teaching, making use of the vast array of resources and support can be invaluable.
Connect with fellow educators, and join teaching associations. Utilise online resources where you can discover lesson plans, excellent teaching materials and educational websites. Doing so will help you step back into the classroom with confidence.
If it has been a significant amount of time since you last taught, it's important to familiarise yourself with any changes to the curriculum, educational policies and advancements in technology. Demonstrating that you understand these changes and are abreast of the latest in educational developments will not only impress potential employers but will also help you provide a quality education to your pupils.
Tips for a Successful Return to Teaching
Embarking on a return to teaching can be both exciting and overwhelming. Teachers can set themselves up for success by considering the following tips:
- Establish clear goals and expectations for yourself. Having a sense of direction will guide your return to teaching and help you stay focused on what you want to achieve
- Build positive relationships with colleagues, students, and parents. A supportive and engaging learning environment relies on strong relationships, fostering collaboration and trust
- Embrace flexibility and adapt to change. Education is a dynamic field, and being open to new ideas and approaches will benefit you and your students
- Seek feedback from colleagues, mentors, and even students. Feedback provides valuable insights that can help you refine your teaching practice and grow as an educator
- Stay updated on teaching vacancies and actively search for the perfect teaching job opportunity that aligns with your skills and interests
Enjoying the Rewards and Challenges of Teaching
Returning to teaching provides you with rewarding opportunities to positively impact students' lives and contribute to their intellectual and emotional growth. It's important to remind yourself that a job in teaching can be both extremely rewarding and very challenging. So make sure you are up for the highs as well as the lows!
Returning to teaching is a decision that requires careful consideration and preparation. Evaluate your motivations, and update your skills and knowledge. Find support and resources, and familiarise yourself with changes in education. Ensure you know how to balance your work and personal life.
By following these tips for a successful return, you can navigate the challenges and enjoy the rewards of teaching again. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting journey?
Frequently Asked Questions about Returning to Teaching
Can I return to teaching after 15 years?
Yes, you can definitely return to teaching after a 15-year break. Many schools and educational institutions welcome experienced educators back into the profession. To ease back into teaching after such a long hiatus, consider starting with part-time or supply teaching positions. Starting with supply teaching is a great way to get back into the role after a break, as you control how many days per week you work and you get to experience different schools and settings to find what’s best for you.
It’s also a good idea to update your knowledge and skills through relevant training courses and be open to embracing new teaching methods and technologies that will have developed during your career break.
How do I regain my passion for teaching?
To reignite your passion for teaching, reflect on why you initially chose this career path. Engage with fellow educators or join professional teaching communities to share experiences and gain fresh perspectives. Experiment with new teaching strategies, lesson plans, and innovative approaches to keep your classes engaging and exciting. Setting achievable goals and celebrating small victories can also help you rediscover your enthusiasm for teaching.
Will I like teaching again?
To enjoy teaching again, focus on building positive relationships with your students and creating a supportive learning environment. Embrace opportunities for professional growth and collaborate with colleagues to exchange ideas and strategies. Take time for self-care and prioritise your well-being to prevent burnout. Recognise and celebrate the impact you have on your students' lives to reignite your love for teaching.
Return to teaching with Horizon teachers
Horizon Teachers can help you restart your teaching career. Whether you are a primary classroom teacher or a secondary school teacher, we have the latest jobs in education on our jobs board. If you are looking for a return to teaching adviser, we're here to help. So if you need any advice, get in touch to see how we can help you return to teaching today.
