Teachers going back to work after maternity leave??

[Girly123]

Just wondering if there are teachers out there that could share their experiences with going back to work after maternity leave.

I am a primary teacher and I start work in school at 7:30 every morning, meaning I leave home by 7. I then don't leave before 5, usually more like 6 every night, so home or 6:30. I can't imagine being able to work those hours 7-6:30 every day and be able to look after a baby.

My OH couldn't have time off work as he is in the forces and is often not even in the country so I would have to base childcare around my working hours. Most childminders don't open until 8 and pick up by 5 or 6.

I am so tired most of the time and I haven't got a baby yet and I just worry xx

 

[cat81]

I'm a secondary school teacher and went back to work 4 days a week after having my son. I drop him off between 7.30 and 7.45 each morning with a childminder (most childminders and nurserys are open from 7.30). I get into work by 8 at the latest. 2 days a week my childminder has him until 6 so I work late / have meetings etc. The other 2 days I pick him up at 4 as I wanted to have some time with him in the week. This usually means that I take work home with me and do it when he's in bed. I won't lie to you, it's exhausting at times trying to fit everything in but I've been back nearly 2 years now and it works for us. When things are tough, remind yourself of the fantastic holidays we get. Good luck. I'm pregnant with number 2 now and it's been very hard coping with work, DS and what has been a difficult pregnancy so far. However, I will definitely be going back again after my mat leave this time. I love my job plus we need the money. Feel free to pm me if you have any more questions. Xx

 

[choc]

I used to work those sort of hours too, but now I drop him off at 7.45 and get to work at 8.10. I leave at 5.15 now instead of 6. I pick Aidan up at 5.45. It was hard to start with, I felt like I never had enough time and also had SLT meetings 2 mornings a week which took up a lot of my prep time. I am used to it now though and it is fine. I am only part time though, 2 and a half days.