During the 2020 lockdown teachers were inundated by parents thanking and acknowledging all that they do after having to do remote online learning with their own children. When we returned to face to face teaching things went back to how they had always been. Once again we are back to the same situation. Teachers drowning and desperate to be saved . Unfortunately I fear that once again history will repeat and despite everything the key recommendations will be scoffed at. For me it is now time to join the countless talented teachers who leave the profession due to burn out.

After 35 years in teaching I am finally brave enough to leave. Unfortunately we are in a 'martyrdom' profession where we as teachers will always put our students first no matter how burnt out or toxic our work environment. For me it is time to now look after myself, as a career which I once loved with a passion has taken such a toll on me that I am now burnt out physically and mentally. Whilst I am nervous about starting the next chapter of my career , I know that it's time to do something that will bring me joy.