Identity: The Missing Piece in Your Teaching Career?

When I work with teachers who are re-evaluating their careers, they often start by wanting to focus on what’s wrong (or right) with their immediate day-to-day challenges, then want to move onto their skills, and (lack of) opportunities. They ask questions such as: Do I need a new certification? Should I apply for leadership roles? Would a different age group …

Time Optimism – A double-edged sword

As someone deeply invested in personal development and coaching, I’ve often encountered the concept of time optimism—the belief that we can accomplish more in a given time frame than is realistically possible. Now, I appreciate that some of you will already be rolling your eyes at this point and thinking ‘not another label people can pin on themselves’ so let …

The Six Fears

Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich (published in 1937) is a guide to success. It is often described as ‘timeless’ and whilst I found parts dated (particularly gender-wise), the final chapter (a discussion of the ‘Six Fears’) was fascinating. Whether you’re an early-career teacher, a seasoned educator, or considering a career shift within or beyond the profession, these fears can …

Portfolio Career v Mosaic Career – Part Two

For teachers considering leaving the profession and/or at least stepping out of the classroom, a portfolio or mosaic career is certainly a strong option. But what are they and how do they differ? And how do you know which option is right for you? In this two-part blog, I share my understanding of the two paths and point out the …

Portfolio Career v Mosaic Career – Part One

For teachers considering leaving the profession and/or at least stepping out of the classroom, a portfolio or mosaic career is certainly a strong option. But what are they and how do they differ? And how do you know which option is right for you? In this two-part blog, I share my understanding of the two paths and point out the …

The Power of Systems

I love reading! I love reading about people. I love reading winning-against-the-odds success stories. I love reading about the way people earn their living. I love reading about self-development and coaching. Some books provide entertainment, others provide snippets of useful information. A really good book inspires me to make changes. The Power of Systems, written by Steve Chandler and Trevor …

Informational Interviews

What are they and how can they help teachers transition to a new career? For teachers considering a career change, the prospect of leaving the classroom can be exciting and daunting in equal measure. The skills honed through years of teaching (for example, communication, organisation, problem-solving, to name but a few) are highly transferable, but navigating the transition into a …