Will's return to teaching story
My journey into education was influenced by my parents’ career choices – they were both teachers and I felt drawn to the idea of having my own class one day and making a meaningful impact on children’s lives. Even though I gained a master’s degree in civil engineering, I decided to go into the Teach First graduate scheme fresh out of university.
It was a difficult start. My first ever lesson was a baptism of fire. After 6 weeks of intensive training, I started teaching as a mathematics teacher at a challenging secondary inner city London school. I was on my own in the classroom from 8.30am to 3.30pm and had to learn very quickly on the job.
After qualifying and 2 tough years, I felt burnt out. I decided to go travelling and pursue a career in my degree field. When I left the classroom, I didn’t consciously give up teaching, but I left not knowing if I would return.
After spending time in South America and Madagascar, I came home and landed a job as an energy engineer. My role was focused on behaviour change which reflected my skills in people management but in stark contrast to teaching, I felt it lacked purpose and did not offer the same rewards.
After one year in the job, I decided to return to the classroom. I missed the quick pace and the fulfilment of teaching.
Getting back into the classroom
The pedagogy and educational landscape were much the same as when I left the classroom but there is always trepidation. Success and happiness in teaching is dependent on the school environment being a good fit. I was determined to find a school that would be a good match for me and was fortunate to find a teaching position in just one week.
In 2014 I joined Lea Valley High School and quickly became Lead Practitioner of Mathematics. In 2016, I became Deputy Head of Maths at a new school, Ark John Keats Academy. Fast forward 8 years and I am now Assistant Principal and Head of Sixth Form at the same school, and I’ve never looked back.
I love teaching despite its challenges as I never have a wasted day. Even a tough day is a rewarding day when you teach.
Some of the children at Ark John Keats Academy have endured a lot of hardship and to see the difference you can make to their lives is hugely gratifying. Over 60% of my students last year went to the UK’s top third universities and we received our very first two offers of university places at Cambridge.
Returning to teaching has been life-changing – a positive decision for both me and my pupils.
Want to return to teaching after a break?
Returning to teaching might be easier than you think. If you’re qualified to teach and interested in getting back into the classroom, support is available.
Find out how we can help you return to teaching. And when you’re ready, you can search for a job on Teaching Vacancies.
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