Almost 40% of Mancunians would opt for another career, with greater self-fulfilment and reward.

A national survey by education charity, Teach First, has found that 62% of employees based in Manchester are open to changing career pathways in the future, with 39% of workers saying they would opt for an alternative job that provided greater self-fulfilment and reward. 

There also seems to be appetite for roles that make a difference, as the survey also revealed that the pandemic has encouraged more than a quarter (29%) of Manchester professionals to consider leaving their role to become a key worker, with 14% of those considering a new role in teaching.

When surveying teachers based in the North West, the charity also found that almost three quarters (72%) feel they’re making a positive impact on society.

Most (91%) of those singled out being a positive role model as to why they feel they’re making an impact, while 84% of those feel that they equip children with the knowledge and skills needed to progress positively. 

Teach First believes teachers play a vital role in making our education system work for every child – and this is supported by teachers themselves. Over two thirds (67%) believe they make a positive impact by improving equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their background.

When asked their favourite aspect of being a teacher, over a third (35%) of those surveyed said their pupils. This was followed by 18% favouring how teaching involves them using their passions and knowledge to inspire the next generation, while 16% of teachers enjoy the variety of a career in the classroom, choosing how every day is different.

By contrast, the national survey revealed that over three quarters (76%) of employees in Manchester are anxious about going to work, hinting that many professionals may not be completely content with their current career.

As part of its manifesto for school recovery in the wake of COVID-19, Teach First is persistently calling for more support for schools and pupils, who were highly affected by the pandemic.

An increase in funding for schools serving disadvantaged communities, and ensuring we recruit, train, and retain high quality teachers is an essential part of that. 

Since 2003, the charity has supported over 18,000 brilliant individuals to train to teach through the Teach First training programme, many who decided to exchange a previous career for the classroom.

Teach First continues to support teachers to make an impact in schools serving some of the country’s most disadvantaged communities.

Alongside its initial teacher training programme, the charity also offers teachers additional mentoring, professional development, and support into school leadership positions.

Joe Hull, Head of Year 11 at Dean Trust Ardwick in Manchester, who made the decision to switch careers and trained to teach English through Teach First, said: “Before teaching, I was a police officer for 12 years with the Greater Manchester Police, working within the Crime Investigation Department.

"I spent several years investigating homicides and serious offences across Greater Manchester, reaching the rank of Detective Sergeant.

"Although I’d thought about teaching earlier in my career, I couldn’t find a training route that suited me and the commitments I had at that time. 

“While in my early 30s and with itchy feet in the police, I discovered Teach First. Its programme enabled me to make an impact from the get-go, by teaching as I trained, and financially supporting my family. 

“Now almost a decade on, I’m head of Year 11 at a Manchester school and still see a lot of cross-over from my policing days.

"Good communication and teamwork are vital within a school, as well as teaching my students how language in all forms plays a key role in society.

"My time in the police force gave me a different perspective on teaching and I have no regrets in switching careers, I only wish I’d done it earlier.”

Russell Hobby, CEO of Teach First, said:  “Those who join teaching from a previous career bring a new wealth of skills and knowledge into the classroom. Teach First has seen first-hand how sharing real world experiences with young people can inspire them into bright futures. 

“Teachers are doing invaluable work to help pupils recover from the pandemic, especially in disadvantaged communities. We’re proud to work closely with schools to support them - ensuring they’re well equipped, and feel able to thrive in their roles. 

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