Melanie Gow’s documentation of her transition from the teaching world to the business world

Part I

After 12 happy (mostly happy) years in teaching, predominantly Special Needs, I have made the transition to the 9 to 5 workplace. No more holidays, but no more marking either! I have been awesomely lucky to find EvaluNet which even although is a big company, still has both feet (and a big heart) firmly planted in the education system.

My decision to leave teaching was not an easy one or a quick process. I was very happy in my school, with my colleagues and with the holidays of course!

I love the act of teaching – the sweet-spot of delivering a lesson well-planned and seeing the penny drop as new concepts are learnt. Nothing beats that – or the special interaction and bond with the individuals in your class. I chose to leave for a number of reasons. Curiosity; where else in the workplace can I use the skills and training I have as a teacher?

• The need for stimulation/personal growth.
• To investigate the possibility of a more financially viable career.
• A change: I was also starting to feel like hamster on a wheel in a very small cage! I spent more time with admin than teaching. Every teacher needs a secretary, but until that happens …

In a nutshell, does “alternative” employment for someone with my skills, training and experience exist, where there is the room for progression in personal growth and finances?  Do such opportunities exist? So began my search.

Had my life taken a different path (kids and a bread-winning husband!), I might have felt differently. I am excited by the change and chance to learn new things and expand my frame of reference. I make this change with the knowledge that the classroom will still be there should I feel the need to leave my cheese and return to the chalk!