Going back to school really adds up for Ian

AT 57 many people are approaching the end of their career and thinking about retirement.

But company director Ian Williams, who has worked as a retail boss, is heading back to the classroom to teach maths.

Ian, 57, from Meltham, is the first person in Yorkshire to be accepted onto the Transition to Teach programme.

The scheme, funded by the Department of Education, helps those in other careers train to become teachers.

It is hoped the programme, run by global education company Cognition Education, will offset the current shortage or science, technology, engineering and maths teachers.

Ian, who has worked in the retail and golf sector, said he wanted a job that gave him a ‘true sense of satisfaction.’

He said: “My experience sits largely within retail businesses where I’ve held director-level positions. More recently, I’ve been running my own company, but I’ve always wanted to do something that makes a difference and gives me a true sense of satisfaction.”

And the training programme will help Ian adapt his workplace skills to the classroom.

Ian said: “I was craving a change and having been a school governor for a number of years, I felt I could bring my professional experience into the class- room. Being a skilled communicator and mentoring and developing people are transferable skills that certainly have their place in a school environment.”

Mel Sproston, regional director for Cognition Education, said: “Whether a person is nearing the end of their career or has a few years’ experience behind them, teaching offers so many positive career and lifestyle benefits.

“We fundamentally believe that individuals with real-world experience across a wealth of industries, sectors

To learn more about Transition to Teach visit www.transitiontoteach. co.uk or attend the upcoming drop-in evening at the Queens Hotel, in Leeds, on April 10 (4pm-7pm).