From corporate ladder to classroom: Owen's inspiring career change with NIoT

A long-held passion realised

For Owen, the idea of teaching was always in the back of his mind. "The plan was always to go into teaching later on down the line," he says. But first, he wanted to gain industry experience. Eight years into a successful corporate career, Owen realised it was time to follow his dream. "One thing led to another and made me question my direction in life and come back to the fact that I wanted to go into teaching."

What drew him to teaching? A love for maths and the positive influence of his own teachers. "I always had a really good relationship with my teachers," Owen recalls, particularly remembering his infant and primary school teachers. "I always felt like teaching could be my calling."

"It was quite a difficult decision going from a stable job where you can see the progression and get comfortable with a certain pay cheque coming in. But at the end of the day, it's an investment into your future and hopefully to make a lifelong career from it. I’m 100% sure I made the right decision.”

The NIoT difference: structure and support

Choosing the right teacher training provider is crucial for a smooth career transition. Owen found that NIoT's structured programme perfectly suited his needs. "The structure of the NIoT is that you are in school Monday through Wednesday, and then on a Thursday you have usually intensive practice or core training in your regional campus," he explains. "Then on the Friday, you go back into your school placement where you can then put into practice some of the things that you've been learning on that Thursday, which is so useful."

The combination of practical experience and theoretical learning, along with dedicated mentors, provided Owen with the support he needed to thrive. "I feel really well supported by the NIoT team," he says.

Transferable skills: more than you think

One common concern for career changers is whether their previous experience will be relevant. Owen found that his corporate background gave him valuable insights. "Coming into the profession at the age of 31 now, it's put me in a position where I have a better understanding of how a workplace or work environment works," he notes.

His experience in management helped him build rapport with school leaders and navigate the professional environment. “I have more confidence because I've been in a management position, so I understand what happens behind the scenes,” he notes. “I know the conversations that you probably should have with management, that maybe someone who's come in straight out of school may not be aware of.”

A heartwarming confirmation

For Owen, the transition has been incredibly rewarding. One particularly memorable moment solidified his decision. "I had a really heartwarming moment actually," he shares, recounting a time when his former year seven students greeted him with overwhelming enthusiasm. "I’d been on another placement so that class hadn’t seen me for six weeks. They saw me in the corridor and then suddenly just erupted and were so pleased to see me. In such a short period of time you build these really strong meaningful relationships that just fill me with joy."

These meaningful interactions are a stark contrast to his previous work life. "Previously I would be coming home stressed and find it very difficult to switch off from work. Now, I would say that almost every single day I’ve come home from school since starting in September, I've thought, I had a brilliant day today," Owen says.

"Do I want to sit down in 10 years' time and think, OK I've been stuck in this job. Yes, I've been progressing and I've got far in my career, but am I happy? And if I’d given that teaching opportunity a shot, could I have had a much happier, more full life?”

Advice for aspiring career changers

If you're contemplating a career change into teaching, Owen's advice is simple: "If you don't try, how will you ever know whether it's the right choice or not?" He encourages others to assess their situation and consider their happiness. "Ask yourself, are you happy? Could I be happier being a teacher? If so, just give it a go.”

Owen's journey is a testament to the power of pursuing your passion. With the right support and a willingness to take a leap, you too can find fulfilment in the classroom.

Ready to make the change?

If Owen’s story has inspired you, explore the NIOT’s teacher training programmes and start your own rewarding journey into teaching today.