Becoming a teacher with health issues?
Hi all,
Hope you're all doing well!
I’m considering teaching as a possible career option and wanted to hear from people who are currently in the profession — especially anyone managing a long-term health issue like I am — to get a realistic idea of what it’s like day to day and how manageable it really is.
I have epilepsy and take daily medication to manage it.
It’s been part of my life since I was 14, and it definitely affected my time in school. My A-levels weren’t great (DDD in all 3 sciences), mostly due to those health issues, but I did go on to complete a degree in Pharmacology.
Since graduating, I’ve mostly worked in unskilled jobs — one lab role that paid below minimum wage, and right now I’m working in an FE college in London in a supported learning department in an admin role.
It’s minimum wage and low-stress, which has been good for my health, but I’m starting to think more seriously about what I might be capable of beyond that.
I know you can’t have everything when it comes to jobs. But at the same time, I feel like I could be doing a lot better — I don’t want my health to be what limits me or defines what I do.
Teaching is something I feel drawn to, partly because of my difficult experiences, and maybe I’d be good at it… or maybe I’m being silly?
Or maybe I’m even more silly for thinking of it at all, considering my poor academic background and ongoing health issues?
Sometimes I wonder if this is just my fate — to accept jobs like this and not expect more. If that’s the case, fair enough. But if there’s a real shot at something better, I’d love to hear it.
I feel like I could bring something valuable to the role. Having struggled in school myself, I understand how it feels to be left behind or unsupported, and I’d like to be the kind of teacher who helps students through that.
That said, I’m realistic about the demands of the job. I know teaching can be very intense. I’m trying to figure out:
– Is it actually doable long-term for someone with a condition like epilepsy?
– Would my background (poor A-levels, a more niche degree) make it harder to get onto a PGCE or get hired later as a secondary science teacher?
– And how supportive are schools in practice when it comes to health accommodations?
If anyone here has experience teaching while managing a health condition — or insight into employability with a less-than-perfect academic record — I’d really appreciate any advice or honest input. Thanks so much for your time
Hope you're all doing well!
I’m considering teaching as a possible career option and wanted to hear from people who are currently in the profession — especially anyone managing a long-term health issue like I am — to get a realistic idea of what it’s like day to day and how manageable it really is.
I have epilepsy and take daily medication to manage it.
It’s been part of my life since I was 14, and it definitely affected my time in school. My A-levels weren’t great (DDD in all 3 sciences), mostly due to those health issues, but I did go on to complete a degree in Pharmacology.
Since graduating, I’ve mostly worked in unskilled jobs — one lab role that paid below minimum wage, and right now I’m working in an FE college in London in a supported learning department in an admin role.
It’s minimum wage and low-stress, which has been good for my health, but I’m starting to think more seriously about what I might be capable of beyond that.
I know you can’t have everything when it comes to jobs. But at the same time, I feel like I could be doing a lot better — I don’t want my health to be what limits me or defines what I do.
Teaching is something I feel drawn to, partly because of my difficult experiences, and maybe I’d be good at it… or maybe I’m being silly?
Or maybe I’m even more silly for thinking of it at all, considering my poor academic background and ongoing health issues?
Sometimes I wonder if this is just my fate — to accept jobs like this and not expect more. If that’s the case, fair enough. But if there’s a real shot at something better, I’d love to hear it.
I feel like I could bring something valuable to the role. Having struggled in school myself, I understand how it feels to be left behind or unsupported, and I’d like to be the kind of teacher who helps students through that.
That said, I’m realistic about the demands of the job. I know teaching can be very intense. I’m trying to figure out:
– Is it actually doable long-term for someone with a condition like epilepsy?
– Would my background (poor A-levels, a more niche degree) make it harder to get onto a PGCE or get hired later as a secondary science teacher?
– And how supportive are schools in practice when it comes to health accommodations?
If anyone here has experience teaching while managing a health condition — or insight into employability with a less-than-perfect academic record — I’d really appreciate any advice or honest input. Thanks so much for your time
Reply 1
If your epilepsy is well controlled you will be able to work effectively in a wide range of roles. I have met patients with epilepsy who work in all kinds of jobs- there will be doctors out there working with epilepsy for sure. I have also met a lot of people with long term conditions or disabilities that have not stopped them from doing a wide range of things, including competing in sports at a high level or working in very physical or safety critical roles.
You may need to discuss your working arrangements with occupational health for any reasonable adjustments to help you. For example, some people with epilepsy may find it best if they avoid working at night because their condition is exacerbated by it.
Although there are some restrictions to what people can do because of their health (for example, pilots generally need very good eyesight), I keep meeting very inspirational people who have taught me that in reality a person's ambition is limited only by the barriers in their mind.
I wish you the very best of luck if you decide to pursue teaching. It is one of the most worthy professions in my view.
You may need to discuss your working arrangements with occupational health for any reasonable adjustments to help you. For example, some people with epilepsy may find it best if they avoid working at night because their condition is exacerbated by it.
Although there are some restrictions to what people can do because of their health (for example, pilots generally need very good eyesight), I keep meeting very inspirational people who have taught me that in reality a person's ambition is limited only by the barriers in their mind.
I wish you the very best of luck if you decide to pursue teaching. It is one of the most worthy professions in my view.
Reply 2
Original post
by ErasistratusVIf your epilepsy is well controlled you will be able to work effectively in a wide range of roles. I have met patients with epilepsy who work in all kinds of jobs- there will be doctors out there working with epilepsy for sure. I have also met a lot of people with long term conditions or disabilities that have not stopped them from doing a wide range of things, including competing in sports at a high level or working in very physical or safety critical roles.
You may need to discuss your working arrangements with occupational health for any reasonable adjustments to help you. For example, some people with epilepsy may find it best if they avoid working at night because their condition is exacerbated by it.
Although there are some restrictions to what people can do because of their health (for example, pilots generally need very good eyesight), I keep meeting very inspirational people who have taught me that in reality a person's ambition is limited only by the barriers in their mind.
I wish you the very best of luck if you decide to pursue teaching. It is one of the most worthy professions in my view.
You may need to discuss your working arrangements with occupational health for any reasonable adjustments to help you. For example, some people with epilepsy may find it best if they avoid working at night because their condition is exacerbated by it.
Although there are some restrictions to what people can do because of their health (for example, pilots generally need very good eyesight), I keep meeting very inspirational people who have taught me that in reality a person's ambition is limited only by the barriers in their mind.
I wish you the very best of luck if you decide to pursue teaching. It is one of the most worthy professions in my view.
Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I think you are right in terms of we can very much be our own worst enemy by limiting ourselves mentally, and thats what i've been doing up and till this point.
However, i'm determined to change and teaching could definitely be that change for me.
Grateful for your motivating words.
Reply 3
Original post
by SimpleLearnerx10Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words. I think you are right in terms of we can very much be our own worst enemy by limiting ourselves mentally, and thats what i've been doing up and till this point.
However, i'm determined to change and teaching could definitely be that change for me.
Grateful for your motivating words.
However, i'm determined to change and teaching could definitely be that change for me.
Grateful for your motivating words.
I'd talk to https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk/
Reply 4
Original post
by SimpleLearnerx10Hi all,
Hope you're all doing well!
I’m considering teaching as a possible career option and wanted to hear from people who are currently in the profession — especially anyone managing a long-term health issue like I am — to get a realistic idea of what it’s like day to day and how manageable it really is.
I have epilepsy and take daily medication to manage it.
It’s been part of my life since I was 14, and it definitely affected my time in school. My A-levels weren’t great (DDD in all 3 sciences), mostly due to those health issues, but I did go on to complete a degree in Pharmacology.
Since graduating, I’ve mostly worked in unskilled jobs — one lab role that paid below minimum wage, and right now I’m working in an FE college in London in a supported learning department in an admin role.
It’s minimum wage and low-stress, which has been good for my health, but I’m starting to think more seriously about what I might be capable of beyond that.
I know you can’t have everything when it comes to jobs. But at the same time, I feel like I could be doing a lot better — I don’t want my health to be what limits me or defines what I do.
Teaching is something I feel drawn to, partly because of my difficult experiences, and maybe I’d be good at it… or maybe I’m being silly?
Or maybe I’m even more silly for thinking of it at all, considering my poor academic background and ongoing health issues?
Sometimes I wonder if this is just my fate — to accept jobs like this and not expect more. If that’s the case, fair enough. But if there’s a real shot at something better, I’d love to hear it.
I feel like I could bring something valuable to the role. Having struggled in school myself, I understand how it feels to be left behind or unsupported, and I’d like to be the kind of teacher who helps students through that.
That said, I’m realistic about the demands of the job. I know teaching can be very intense. I’m trying to figure out:
– Is it actually doable long-term for someone with a condition like epilepsy?
– Would my background (poor A-levels, a more niche degree) make it harder to get onto a PGCE or get hired later as a secondary science teacher?
– And how supportive are schools in practice when it comes to health accommodations?
If anyone here has experience teaching while managing a health condition — or insight into employability with a less-than-perfect academic record — I’d really appreciate any advice or honest input. Thanks so much for your time
Hope you're all doing well!
I’m considering teaching as a possible career option and wanted to hear from people who are currently in the profession — especially anyone managing a long-term health issue like I am — to get a realistic idea of what it’s like day to day and how manageable it really is.
I have epilepsy and take daily medication to manage it.
It’s been part of my life since I was 14, and it definitely affected my time in school. My A-levels weren’t great (DDD in all 3 sciences), mostly due to those health issues, but I did go on to complete a degree in Pharmacology.
Since graduating, I’ve mostly worked in unskilled jobs — one lab role that paid below minimum wage, and right now I’m working in an FE college in London in a supported learning department in an admin role.
It’s minimum wage and low-stress, which has been good for my health, but I’m starting to think more seriously about what I might be capable of beyond that.
I know you can’t have everything when it comes to jobs. But at the same time, I feel like I could be doing a lot better — I don’t want my health to be what limits me or defines what I do.
Teaching is something I feel drawn to, partly because of my difficult experiences, and maybe I’d be good at it… or maybe I’m being silly?
Or maybe I’m even more silly for thinking of it at all, considering my poor academic background and ongoing health issues?
Sometimes I wonder if this is just my fate — to accept jobs like this and not expect more. If that’s the case, fair enough. But if there’s a real shot at something better, I’d love to hear it.
I feel like I could bring something valuable to the role. Having struggled in school myself, I understand how it feels to be left behind or unsupported, and I’d like to be the kind of teacher who helps students through that.
That said, I’m realistic about the demands of the job. I know teaching can be very intense. I’m trying to figure out:
– Is it actually doable long-term for someone with a condition like epilepsy?
– Would my background (poor A-levels, a more niche degree) make it harder to get onto a PGCE or get hired later as a secondary science teacher?
– And how supportive are schools in practice when it comes to health accommodations?
If anyone here has experience teaching while managing a health condition — or insight into employability with a less-than-perfect academic record — I’d really appreciate any advice or honest input. Thanks so much for your time
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your honesty — it’s clear from your post that you’re thoughtful, resilient, and genuinely care about making a difference. That alone already makes you someone with real potential to become a powerful, empathetic teacher.
I want to say upfront: you are not silly at all for considering teaching, and your health condition or academic history do not define what you are capable of.
A few thoughts from someone who has worked in education and seen others navigate similar paths:
🔹 On managing epilepsy and teaching
Teaching can be demanding — physically, emotionally, and mentally — but that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach for someone with a long-term health condition like epilepsy. The key is knowing your limits, managing your energy wisely, and choosing a supportive work environment. I’ve known teachers who have managed conditions like epilepsy, chronic fatigue, and even autoimmune disorders successfully — but they had to be proactive about setting boundaries and communicating their needs clearly.
Flexibility might vary by school, but the profession legally must provide reasonable accommodations under the Equality Act. And many schools are increasingly aware of the importance of staff well-being.
🔹 On your academic background & entering teaching
While your A-level results might not have been strong, your degree in Pharmacology is very relevant, especially for teaching science. Most teacher training providers will look at your whole journey — not just grades — especially when you have real-world experience like your current role in an FE college.
If you’re considering formal qualifications, you might explore:
•
PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education)
•
A diploma in teaching, which can be a great alternative route for those who prefer a more practical, classroom-based approach
•
Teaching apprenticeships, which allow you to train while you earn
🔹 On school support and accommodations
This can vary greatly depending on the school. Some are deeply supportive and well-equipped to handle health-related needs, while others may not be as aware or flexible. Before committing, it might be worth spending more time in schools (even as a teaching assistant or through short placements) to get a feel for the environment.
Reply 5
I would broadly echo the above. I spent a fair time conducting work experience in secondary schools as I considered teaching a long time ago previously. If you spend enough time in your chosen educational niche I bet 95% of people would opt to be teachers. It really is quite a rewarding job I found.
I would hesitantly say that some of the best teachers I ever had were people who had gained other qualifications and worked in other industries first. They accepted no nonsense and wouldn't tolerate poor academic effort: low effort work would be returned to be redone. They would often leverage their other experiences and discuss other subject areas way outside of what their chosen slice of teaching was based on and this added interest and detail to a lot of our teaching.
I would hesitantly say that some of the best teachers I ever had were people who had gained other qualifications and worked in other industries first. They accepted no nonsense and wouldn't tolerate poor academic effort: low effort work would be returned to be redone. They would often leverage their other experiences and discuss other subject areas way outside of what their chosen slice of teaching was based on and this added interest and detail to a lot of our teaching.
(edited 8 months ago)
Reply 6
Hi!
I am about to start a PGCE in Secondary Science. Like you, I have a seizure condition caused by chronic migraines and a multitude of other health problems that unfortunately come along with it.
I spoke to an advisor with Get into Teaching who was incredibly helpful and explained to me that the 'Fitness to Train to Teach' section on a lot of PGCE applications is a health questionnaire and occasional meeting and they WANT you to pass it. It is mainly to understand your conditions and put in place reasonable changes and adjustments to help you reach your potential.
Like you, I realised going through education as someone with a chronic illness (mine also started when I was 14) is a difficult thing and poses a lot more challenges than those who don't experience this. During my application and interview I spoke a fair amount how this influenced my decision to become a teacher and how the understanding of disabilities will help me be a more understanding and empathetic teacher. They agreed with this and said how they wished more teachers who understand disabilities were in the system to help prevent the discrimination and lack of empathy that unfortunately myself, and probably you aswell, experienced.
Your experiences MATTER! If it is something you feel drawn towards I 100% recommend it however I have been informed that it will be a very intense year and to access all the wellbeing support and university services I can in order to manage it and keep myself happy.
If you would like to talk more on this, be updated on my experience as a disabled trainee teacher or have any questions at all please let me know and I'd be happy to help!
I am about to start a PGCE in Secondary Science. Like you, I have a seizure condition caused by chronic migraines and a multitude of other health problems that unfortunately come along with it.
I spoke to an advisor with Get into Teaching who was incredibly helpful and explained to me that the 'Fitness to Train to Teach' section on a lot of PGCE applications is a health questionnaire and occasional meeting and they WANT you to pass it. It is mainly to understand your conditions and put in place reasonable changes and adjustments to help you reach your potential.
Like you, I realised going through education as someone with a chronic illness (mine also started when I was 14) is a difficult thing and poses a lot more challenges than those who don't experience this. During my application and interview I spoke a fair amount how this influenced my decision to become a teacher and how the understanding of disabilities will help me be a more understanding and empathetic teacher. They agreed with this and said how they wished more teachers who understand disabilities were in the system to help prevent the discrimination and lack of empathy that unfortunately myself, and probably you aswell, experienced.
Your experiences MATTER! If it is something you feel drawn towards I 100% recommend it however I have been informed that it will be a very intense year and to access all the wellbeing support and university services I can in order to manage it and keep myself happy.
If you would like to talk more on this, be updated on my experience as a disabled trainee teacher or have any questions at all please let me know and I'd be happy to help!
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