In this blog post, I had the pleasure of interviewing Marita from London, a retired teacher with whom I had the privilege of working with during my time in the city. Retirement is a topic that crosses our minds at various points in our careers, and whether we actively plan for it or not, it is crucial to consider the financial aspect to fulfil our post-retirement aspirations. Join me in this insightful conversation with Marita as she shares her experiences and provides valuable tips for a smooth transition into retirement.
Vicky: Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
Marita: I grew up in Yorkshire and Cheshire, training to be a teacher at the College of Ripon and York St John. Moving to London was a necessity at the time due to the challenging job market for teachers. I began my journey as a class teacher and eventually progressed to the roles of Senior Teacher and Phase Leader in a Primary School in London. I intentionally avoided becoming a Deputy or Headteacher as I cherished the direct connection with the children.
How long have you been retired for?
Marita: I’ve now been retired for eight years, and the passing of time has been astonishingly swift.
What were the most rewarding aspects of your career in education, and how did they evolve over time?
Marita: The most fulfilling part of my job was being with the children, witnessing their growth throughout the year under my guidance. Mentoring new and trainee teachers, guiding them through the early stages of their careers, was also a source of great satisfaction.
Could you share any tips for a smooth transition into retirement?
Marita: Prior to retirement, I attended a ‘Retirement’ course led by a teacher’s union. It proved invaluable for practical considerations, such as financial planning and preparing for the years ahead. I would strongly recommend a similar course for everyone. In terms of day-to-day life, the advice from friends was consistent – always have a plan for the day ahead, even if it’s just a trip to the shops or handling household chores. This simple habit has proven to be crucial. Additionally, think ahead before retirement about what you want to do, such as joining clubs or planning holidays.
Did you give up paid work after retiring from being a senior teacher?
Marita: I gave up all paid work upon retirement.
In retrospect, are there any decisions or strategies you wish you had known earlier in your career that would have made a significant difference to your retired life now?
Marita: Not really.
How did you stay engaged with the education community or pursue new interests and passions after retirement?
Marita: During the first year of retirement, I volunteered once a week at my former school, aiding a friend and former colleague in the classroom. This not only assisted her but also allowed me to gradually transition from teaching and avoid an abrupt break.
What do you miss about working in a school?
Marita: I miss the direct interaction with children. Initially, I missed my colleagues, but I now understand that many of them have moved on, and the school operates very differently.
Are there any resources, books, or workshops that you found particularly helpful in preparing for retirement?
Marita: I mentioned the retirement course earlier. Additionally, the guidance from friends who were already retired played a significant role in helping me settle into retirement.
What advice would you give to educators near the end of their careers who are looking to make the most of their post-retirement years?
Marita: Plan what you are going to do before you leave, whether it involves other forms of work or leisure pursuits.
What advice would you give to educators at the start of their careers who are looking to make the most of their post-retirement years?
Marita: Ensure you have a definite pension plan. The rules around teachers’ pensions have changed, and it is crucial to have a reliable source of income, rather than relying solely on the minimal state pension.
Is there anything else that you would like to share?
Marita: It can be daunting when you finish working after so many years. I intentionally went on holiday the first week of the new term when I first retired to avoid overthinking whether I’d made the right decision. Keeping busy is key! I joined a local WI club to meet new people and became more involved in voluntary work with the local church. This, along with having more time for family and grandchildren (not to mention babysitting), has kept me very busy.
Vicky: Thank you for your insights and for your time, Marita.
