We asked former teachers why they retired and how it has changed their lives.
For me, working in a school didn't end once the bell had rung. My work life was stressful, my family suffered and the pressure I was under on a day to day basis definitely had a negative effect on my health and overall wellbeing.
If I had to describe my role within the school, I'd call it 'demanding' or 'overbearing'. My school routine started at 8am and ended at 5.15 in the evening. As soon as I got home, I would spend four to five hours marking and lesson planning, before wolfing down some food and going to bed exhausted. During the holidays my summer break would work out at around three weeks and a half-term holiday required at least four days' work in the classroom, preparing for the term ahead.
I took early retirement in summer 2010 and don't regret my decision one little bit. Don't get me wrong, I loved the children and my colleagues, but the demands from outside the classroom took over and spoilt the job for me. Now, I have so many things to do I don't know how I had the time to fit work in!
In my opinion, being able to enjoy life to the full is the best thing about retirement. I can now see my friends and family on a much more regular basis than I ever have before. My best friend recently told me it was nice to have me back after 12 long years!
When I was teaching I felt guilty I didn't see my family enough and when I did I was often preoccupied with work worries. Now I get to spend quality time with my grandchildren and even help them read and write stories (although I must admit, we spend most of the time laughing!)
Fortunately, I also get to spend much more time with my father, who is currently living in a retirement village in Warrington. He's 92, so I see him once a week, rather than just in school holidays like before. I love the laughter and memories we share and will always regret all the times I couldn't be around for him in the past.
One of the best things about retirement is the fact that I can now catch up on all my hobbies and interests, which took a firm 'back seat' because of my teaching career.
I make celebration cakes for weddings, birthdays and christenings. I can now bake without having to work around school duties which is huge relief, and means my cakes are much tastier too!
I am also a member of a golf club and have recently joined 'Gymaphobics', where I have lost weight, toned up and made new friends. I have always been a bit of an 'am-dram' queen, so take part in local theatre productions and sing for two choirs. Retirement also means that I have finally begun to fundraise again for the Stroke Association after being a fringe member for almost 12 years.
My husband retired at the end of 2011 and we are very much looking forward to spending time together, playing golf and going travelling. We're both incredibly excited for this September, because we have a round-the-world trip booked.
I have realised that since I left school I now enjoy time: my time! I can do things when I want to do them, not when I need to and I only ever jump up for the doorbell. I have time to read, time for friends and family and time to pamper myself. I love not having to organise everything to the 'Nth' degree.
If I had any advice for someone who is retiring, I would say don't plan anything too structured for the first few months. Allow yourself 'me' time. I would also say enjoy the freedom. When you have finally realised that you are not on holiday, then is the time to think about what you want to do. It took me about five months to really settle into retirement but I realise everybody is different. The main thing is to enjoy yourself; you have worked hard enough for long enough and deserve it!
This article was originally featured in The Supporter magazine, to read the magazine in full or to subscribe click here.
