More than 1 in 4 working adults in Norwich regret not making a job move two years on

New market research released today reveals that more than a quarter (28%) of working adults surveyed in Norwich regret staying stuck in their current job or career and not taking action to make a definitive career change over the past two years*, despite almost half (45%) wanting to*.

It is two years since the onset of the pandemic, during which time many people have been reassessing parts of their life. Yet almost half (45%) of respondents in Norwich say that although they made some commitments to themselves back in 2020 about how they would live their lives moving forward, two years on they haven’t managed to stick to them**.

The national survey of over 2,000 of the working population in England was carried out for Get into Teaching – the national campaign aimed at encouraging people to consider teaching as a career. It explores the general public’s views on how people are feeling about their careers now, and if a change in direction was something they had aspired to.

Almost half (45%) of those surveyed in Norwich said their experience of the pandemic has made them realise that they want or might like to, change their job role or career to something entirely different*, and nearly three quarters (72%) agree it’s never too late to make a change***. Yet fear of taking the leap is holding back over a fifth (22%) from doing so, as they believe there is more stability in their current role.

However, half (50%) in Norwich say that that if they knew could have a more positive impact on society in a new role, they would be more likely to switch*. Asked about teaching, almost two thirds (64%) agree it is a career that allows people to make a positive contribution to society***.

Separate national data from the most recent Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Census shows that in England, in total, there were 31,233 new entrants to postgraduate ITT in 2021/22 and almost half (48%) were aged 25 or over.

Post-graduate teacher training typically lasts one year, with new trainees starting courses each September, so applications are now open to train from this coming September.

Danielle Payton, 29, a design and technology teacher at Long Stratton High School in Norfolk decided to switch into teaching in July 2019 after working in fashion. Reflecting on this career and life change, Danielle said:

“Deciding to switch careers can be a big decision that’s easy to put off. I moved into teaching because I knew I wanted to be in a role where I had the opportunity to go home each day knowing I’ve made a difference. I would urge anyone wanting to use their skills and experience to help shape the lives of the next generation to consider teaching.

“For me the best part about a career in teaching is giving students a wider understanding of the world around them and looking at how the decisions and thought processes that they have now within their work can actively impact their lives – not only in terms of design but having a better understanding of what influences the world and how they can create a better world for future generations.”

Roger Pope, spokesperson for the Get into Teaching campaign and a National Leader of Education, said: “Our research highlights that whilst the experience of the last two years has prompted many people to consider changing their job or career, a significant proportion now have regrets about not being more proactive and making that leap during this time.

“It’s interesting to see just how many people acknowledge that they would be more likely to make a move if they knew they could have a more positive impact on society – which is exactly what a career in teaching allows you to do.

“Changing careers can seem daunting – we know many do take the plunge at this time of year while others might mull over their options longer.
“At this time of year, I would encourage anyone who is motivated by making a real difference, in an exciting career that provides stability and great prospects, to visit the Get into Teaching website to find out more. There’s support available and dedicated teacher training advisers on hand to guide you.”
The Get into Teaching service has experienced advisers available to give free support and advice.

To find out more about a career in the classroom and the free support available visit: https://getintoteaching.education.gov.uk or call the Get into Teaching line on 0800 389 2500.