Time for a change?
More than 2 in 5 people looking to make new career plans in 2021
New market research has revealed how many people in England are looking to 2021 for the career plan shake-up they had envisaged at the turn of the new decade, before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
Our survey of over 2,400 people explores the public’s views on their career aspirations and plans for the future following a turbulent 2020.
Nearly three quarters (71%) of those surveyed agree that 2020, and all it brought, was the year that made them realise what is important to them; and over four in 10 (44%) agree they are looking forward to making new career plans this year.
When asked which features of their current job or career they have particularly valued since Covid-19, more than one in five (21%) said being able to help others and 19% said knowing their work has a positive impact in society.
Despite this, more than a third (34%) admit they don’t feel fulfilled by their current career — and looking ahead to the future, 62% say they want a career that helps others.
When asked to think about their long-term career plans, almost two thirds (64%) said they’ve been inspired by the work of the nation’s key workers. Thinking about the efforts of teachers in particular:
- 63% agree they have a lot of admiration for their work
- 71% agree teachers should feel a huge sense of pride for the job they do in society more generally.
- Seven in 10 (70%) agree teachers do more to shape the next generation than they can in their job
- Over half (52%) agree teachers have a more rewarding role than they do.
Nicola Whiston, a Maths teacher at Ormiston Horizon Academy in Stoke-on-Trent, decided to switch into teaching 11 years ago after working in sales and recruitment. Reflecting on her career and life change, Nicola said:
“Deciding to train as a teacher is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ll never regret the career I had before as it taught me a lot, and the life experience I gained has been invaluable to bring into the classroom. Of course, making the jump can seem daunting at first, especially coming from a completely different career, but if you think about what you want out of life and what you want to give back, it’s all worth it.
“Shaping the lives of the next generation is a huge privilege, providing you with a sense of purpose that’s unrivalled and that’s been made even more poignant over the past year. I finish every day knowing that I’ve made a difference to the lives of my students.
“I would urge anyone thinking about a career move to consider teaching, it’s a role you can bring so much to and one that will reward you in equal measure.”
The Get into Teaching service has experienced advisers available to give free support and advice. To register your interest in teaching and find out more about initial teacher training starting from September, visit the Get into Teaching website or call the Get Into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.
