In this episode, Claire speaks with Jack Watson, a former primary school teacher and now Resource Creator at Classroom Secrets. Jack joined Classroom Secrets in October 2018 and started his journey as a Customer Service Administrator, then Sales Representative and currently works as a Resource Creator.
Growing up, Jack always knew he wanted to be a teacher. He studied, attended university and graduated with a teaching qualification. After his graduation, Jack got his first job in Halifax and was ready to enter the teaching world with his passion, motivation and zeal.
Due to the workload of the job, Jack’s love of teaching started to decrease. He started to develop work-related stress and anxiety. For a long time, he suppressed his feelings and was unable to speak to any friends, family or colleagues about his well-being and work-related stress.
In the podcast, Jack talks about his teaching journey and why he decided to quit. He talks about the challenges he faced as a teacher, as well as, what happened after he resigned. He speaks about a heart-breaking decision he made after quitting and explains how he got to where he is today. Jack speaks about the support and services available for people suffering from work-related stress. He emphasises the importance of seeking advice from professionals, colleagues and family.
*If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast, you can contact the Samaritans, who provide confidential, emotional support for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair.
Helpline: 08457 90 90 90 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
Website: https://www.samaritans.org/ 
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Demands of the jobDue to the nature of the job and the expectations including teaching and paperwork, it requires much more from an individual than their directed teaching time. Teachers are expected to complete all tasks even if this requires them to work long hours of the day, which is usually the case. Instead of leaving tasks for the next day, teachers endeavour to complete all tasks as and when they are given. The task may be complete, but they never end and constantly increasing.
Making decisionsTeaching is a tiring job because multiple decisions need to be made. It is hard for a teacher to track all the decisions they have made but they are solely responsible for their class.
Talk to your familySpeak to family members. They will be able to see it with a fresh pair of eyes. They will be able to provide guidance on what’s best for you and your well-being. Subsequently, this will support and benefit your attitude and energy for the following teaching day.
Seek medical adviceSome teachers may not need time off work. The consultant maybe able to offer specialised support and advice on available services and support groups, as well as, some tips on how to maintain a positive well-being.
Speak to the Senior Leadership TeamBe open and honest with management within your school. Share your worries and concerns and ask for advice. See what support they are willing to offer.
Manage your time effectivelyManage your workload and time wisely. Allow yourself the evening if needed to relax and not do any work, rather than overworking and exhausting yourself for the next day. Find techniques that work for you, if you can’t do it on an evening, wake up the following day earlier and get it done.
Talk to peopleReach out and find sessions where you can talk openly and honestly. Don’t be afraid to speak to others. They may give you the key to your trapped door. Research services such as mixed peer support groups, social media forums, services provided by your medical consultant.
Coping techniquesAfter seeking advice, find and implement the strategies that work for you. If they don’t work for you don’t force them to work. Some will, some won’t. The ones that do continue using them to develop a positive mental well-being.
Give teachers timeTeachers should be given time to complete the tasks. This prevents them f