Not Going Back – A Different Direction
Posted: September 5th, 2010 | Author: ZoeRoss | Filed under: Education, Strategy, Teaching, Technology | Tags: Business, Education, ICT, Teaching | 8 Comments »
It’s that time of year again: most of my friends are back at school (as teachers!) and much of the chat on Twitter is about meeting new classes.
However, this year I won’t be going back to school and for the first time ever on Thursday, my son went to school and I didn’t.
I am no longer officially a teacher, although I think I will always be a teacher.
I am still incredibly passionate about education and I loved working with teenagers, especially those that have to deal with more than most. I almost cannot comprehend that, for the moment, I will not be doing that job.
I am already doing some ICT consultancy and training for a number of companies, and am currently working on launching my own venture which will aim to help educators use engaging and innovative technology in their classrooms and organisations.
Running my own business has been something I have wanted to do for years, especially during my time as a Business & Economics teacher. Getting to this point has been a very steep learning curve and I have been devouring more books and online resources in the past 6 months than I have since my teaching degree.
As with teaching, I suspect that it won’t be until I am actually doing it that I really learn what it’s all about. It’s extremely exciting, although rather daunting after the safe confines of the teaching profession. Many of my former colleagues and friends think I am nuts and I am very grateful to the smaller number who share my ‘carpe diem’ attitude and have been so supportive. I look forward to sharing more details about the company soon.
Meanwhile, all the best to those of you starting a new term. I absolutely know the energy and dedication it takes to do the job that is never finished.
Hi Zoë,
I read this with interest as I agree that there is much more that could be done with IT in education to help schools exploit it more. Especially in primary schools.
I had thought about doing what you have done for a little while, but it’s a big jump and I admire you for that. I haven’t got to that stage of “braveness” yet!
Best of luck. I shall be following your posts with interest.
Martyn
Glad to hear you agree that there is more that could be done! Thanks for your wishes of luck too!
Hi Zoe
You came up under the recommendations on Twitter as someone to follow.
All the best with your new venture. Whilst I miss the security of a teaching post, I love being freelance and feel lucky to be able to do what I do.
Best wishes
Juliet
Thanks Juliet! It’s always good to know other people have made the leap successfully!
Hi Zoe,
I have sort of just done the opposite, although I was only consulting local small business on their IT and website development, so not quite the same as I imagine you have planned.
Having decided to become a secondary school teacher I am currently finding it very daunting to be trying to deal with low set year 9 girls after the safe confines of being freelance!
I wish you all the best and look forward to seeing what you do.
@chrisajuk
Thanks very much, Chris. Yes, we are opposites, but similar in that we like a challenge I suspect! Good luck to you too – year 9 is always the trickiest!!
Hi Zoe,
Just come across you on Twitter. I wish you well in the new role. I was struck by your comment “I am no longer officially a teacher, although I think I will always be a teacher.”
That’s exactly how I feel, even after 10 years out of the classroom!
Mark
Thanks, Mark! Yes, am definitely still a teacher – although am quite enjoying life without bells:)