I’d thought I’d retire at 50, especially as we were beginning a new adventure and moving to the North West of Victoria. My husband of 2 years had been looking for a job in the rural sector. He had nearly finished his communications mature age studies and had been a ‘blockie’ in the Riverland for 15 years in his first marriage, so the job seemed tailor made for him.
I’d taught for 30 years in Adelaide and country SA and was ready to become a housewife and possibly a lady who lunched. I quickly learnt that my husband was a workaholic and I had too much time on my hands and not being a domestic goddess could not easily channel it into housework. Not having children meant that I didn’t have the school connections and the newcomers group was fine, but I was a good deal older than most of the members.
A little reluctantly I decided to put my name down on the relief list at the local kindergartens and was welcomed VERY ENTHUSIASTICALLY. [Relievers were a very rare breed]. I took on several teaching jobs [and for the past 3 worked in a crèche] for the next 9 years and was looking forward to retirement at 60. Again that plan has been put on hold as a job was advertised at a rural community some 45 k’s from Mildura where we live.
I had taught there for nearly 3 years and left when I was diagnosed with breast cancer 5 years ago. I thought that the 26 hours per fortnight [including the prep and assessment time] would be a doddle. Whoops wrong again!
I landed straight into the new curriculum, inservices, transition reports and getting to know new children, parents and remember NAMES! Although I am now free of the cancer I am 5 years older, have arthritis in the hip and hands and have difficulty remembering names and tasks, at times! And of course there is the 35 minute drive each way.
After 5 weeks in the job I have also developed high blood pressure. Prior to taking up the job I was working in a crèche one am per week so the change is noticeable despite the fact that I only have a group of 14 children.
Is it worth it? Despite the above changes and issues it is! I am busy, extended, challenged, inspired, focused and better paid…and in the holidays too! I am not looking at the long term, but am involved and feel appreciated. All qualities that I feel are so important in older age. I have made concessions to my age and employment and now have a cleaner and buy takeaway Thai once a week!
Linda Porter Thornton @ 60 / Sept ’09