Inspirational Teacher Interviews – At Those Who Can, we love hearing about teachers’ lived experiences, from the classroom to their new ventures.
We are always learning and adapting and these new blogs aim to inspire and give direction.
We caught up with former teacher Jonathan Woodhead from BAE, read about his journey here:
What’s Your Background In Teaching?
Started as a teaching assistant in 2012. Trained through a salaried route to become a history teacher. Had many roles such as Head of Year and Head of Department. Also did NPQSL to try and progress to SLT. This was all 11-16 high school teaching.
Why Did You Decide To Embark On A New Career?
Numerous reasons. My commute being one (700 miles a week driving) but also I decided that there was no longevity in teaching for me.
I enjoyed what I did and was good at it; forming good relationships with both students and staff, but I was exhausted and felt like I was constantly performing in order to keep children engaged.
My mental and physical health suffered and I knew that it wouldn’t be possible to continue at the level I was at without permanent damage.
I decided to apply to BAE and now work as a Project Manager who looks after the development of degree level apprentices from a functional point of view. I organise placements and run educational workshops. With flexible working and real career progression without breaking myself, I’ve never been happier!
What Barriers Did You Face?
I wasn’t sure how my skills would transfer out of teaching. There is a belief in teaching that you can’t do anything else – this is false.
How Have Your Teaching Skills Helped You?
I’m still working with young people, still planning and delivering sessions and things like that! I was always good at building rapport with students quickly and this has really helped me form good relationships with colleagues and apprentices quickly.
What New Skills Have You Developed?
Working in a more professional feeling organisation has been a steep learning curve. My teaching style was very down to earth and I mostly won students around by being funny – this doesn’t always wash in the big scary corporate world!
What Do You Relish About Your New Role?
The excitement of working towards something that impacts everyone in the country – classified info though! I also love the flexibility. Yesterday I was working from home and went for a run with my dog at lunch. Just took a longer lunch and worked the time back in the afternoon.
Who Has Inspired You On Your Career Journey?
My wife was a massive support in encouraging me to take that leap away from teaching. It was hard and emotional but she’s inspired me to try something new!
What Are Your Three Top Pieces Of Advice For Someone Wanting To Do Something Similar?
- Your skills are transferable, more than you know. You just need to rebrand and reword your approach.
- There are so many opportunities out there. Don’t be afraid to try something new. I wasn’t successful in my first interviews and this was hard, especially when I was struggling at work. But I persevered and it all paid off!
- Speak to people in the business area you’re interested in – make connections and find out what is out there! I cannot recommend working for BAE enough!
Those Who Can emails and website also prompted me to start looking for alternatives to teaching so I’d also like to say thank you to you too!
Thank you Jonathan for contributing to our Teacher Interviews, if you would like to write for us, we are always looking for stories to inspire teachers: Write for Those Who Can
Great educational roles can be found on our Job Board.
As you can see from Jonathan’s journey, you don’t need to stay in the education sector, you skills are valued in other sectors. Head towards organisations you are naturally drawn to. If you feel you need more support you can read some of our Career Advice Blogs or our Courses Page for online and in-person workshops.
