A career changer’s journey into teaching
From managing teams to teaching teens
Before embarking on her teaching journey, Barbara worked as an Area Manager at Amazon, overseeing teams of up to 100 people. Her role involved managing the logistics process, from picking items to shipping them out. While she found many aspects of the job rewarding, one stood out in particular—helping others develop their skills and progress in their careers.
“I loved training people and enabling them to move forward in their careers. It was so fulfilling to support colleagues as they worked towards promotions or new opportunities,” Barbara shared. “That’s what got me thinking—how can I use my passion for mentoring and my love for languages to make a real difference? That’s when teaching started to make sense.”
“I realised that speaking another language opens so many doors,” she said. “I wanted to share that with young people—to help them see the opportunities that learning a language can bring.”
Why teaching?
Barbara's passion for education was also sparked by her ability to connect with people through language. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, she relished the opportunity to communicate with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, deepening her understanding of different cultures.
“I realised that speaking another language opens so many doors,” she said. “I wanted to share that with young people—to help them see the opportunities that learning a language can bring.”
Encouraged by a close friend who had been a dedicated teacher for years, Barbara decided to take the plunge. She researched her options and found the NIoT’s programme particularly appealing due to its school-based training, which offers hands-on experience right from the start.
Making the transition
Surprisingly, Barbara found the transition from the corporate world to the classroom smoother than she anticipated.
“There’s so much support available,” she explained. “From the application process to securing a placement, I found everything quite straightforward. I knew I wanted a school-based route because I wanted to be in the classroom from day one, and that hands-on experience has been invaluable.”
Her training began with an intensive induction that prepared her for life in the classroom. “The three days before starting in school were really useful,” she said. “Learning about behaviour management upfront helped me feel more confident stepping into the classroom.”
“Every time I learn something new in training, I can immediately see how it applies in my teaching practice. It’s amazing to see things fall into place.”
The highlights of teacher training
For Barbara, one of the best parts of the programme is its structure. With four days in school and one dedicated to training, she finds the balance perfect for gaining practical experience while continuously building her knowledge.
“The way training builds upon previous knowledge makes everything click into place,” she explained. “Every time I learn something new in training, I can immediately see how it applies in my teaching practice. It’s amazing to see things fall into place.”
She also appreciates the support from her mentors and fellow trainees. “I’ve been matched with experienced and knowledgeable mentors who have been fantastic in guiding me,” she shared. “And having a diverse group of fellow trainees, many of whom have also changed careers, has made the experience even more enriching.”
Lessons from a career changer
Barbara’s previous experience in management has helped her in some ways—especially when it comes to leadership skills—but she acknowledges that working with children is a whole different challenge.
“Before I started, I thought my experience in managing teams would translate directly, but working with children is completely different,” she admitted. “You still have to build relationships and earn trust, but in a very different way.”
Despite the challenges, she has had many moments that reaffirm her decision. “Whether it’s seeing students grasp a new concept or building relationships with them, there are little moments every day that make me realise I made the right choice.”
“There’s so much more to teaching than people realise, but it’s an incredible journey.”
Advice for others considering a career change
For those contemplating a move into teaching, Barbara’s advice is simple: go for it.
“If you’re passionate about making a difference and committed to teaching for the right reasons, take the plunge,” she encouraged. “It’s a career that challenges you, but it’s also one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do.”
With her training well underway, Barbara is excited about the future. “There’s so much more to teaching than people realise, but it’s an incredible journey,” she said. “I wouldn’t change my decision for anything.”