Hi all,
I have just found this site and thinks it's great! So good to see so many mature students and people sharing ideas and helping each other.
I am having trouble finding advice and guidance (Jobcentre, CIB and a career helpline were generally useless). I would like to share my journey so far.
I am a 26yr old male and I recently left my job in financial services. I have worked in this industry since 19.
After doing a self assessment, personality testing, reading numerous websites and much soul searching I am very interested in teaching at primary level. I was interested in this in my teenage years but have after many years decided to pursue this now.
On the academic side I have 10 GSCEs. All grade C or above. I have two A levels. Grade D in General Studies and E in Business & Economics combined. I also have 2 AS levels, one grade E in ICT and communications and a C in German.
With regards to experience in a school setting I have arranged a one day observation in a primary school next week. I am also trying to arrange a one day observation in a disabled school. I have also been accepted into a local primary school to do some work exp (hopefully 2 weeks worth) and maybe some ongoing voluntary work. I am waiting for the CRB check to come through.
On the financial side I have no credit cards, no debts, no mortgage and I live at home and will do so throughout nost / all of uni so the overheads are not very expensive. I also should have enough savings to put myself through University although I am looking into seeing if I will be eligible for a bursary or any types of grant as I am jobless. If not I can get a part time job to top things up.
I have looked at two Unis closeby and read through their websites. I am impressed by both and have downloaded each prospectus to read through and I will attend open days in October to have a good look at them.
I have evidence of recent study if the Uni enquires about that. CF1 (Financial qualification on financial regulation, conduct and ethics). This is endorsed by the Chartered Insurance Institute.
I am also hoping to draft my Ucas form and common interview questions to make sure I am upto speed on these for when an interview may happen.
I am concerned my poor grades will hinder me but am hopeful that as a male wishing to be a primary school teacher and also combining that with my life / employment experience I was hoping this may count for something.
Is there anything else anyone can think of that I have missed? Should be aware of? Need to be doing now whilst I have this time to plan effectively and properly?
Thanks for reading.
Look forward to any helpful ideas, thoughts or comments.