Nursery Teachers: Love or Leave? Do I have any new choices?

stay or leaving nursery

I know feeling stuck as a nursery teacher doesn’t feel good.

Those first few years in the nursery can be a whirlwind. You’re brimming with new ideas, but the daily routine can feel relentless. You poured your heart into every lesson plan, every sing-along, every nappy change! Here’s the truth: feeling stuck is a normal part of the early nursery teacher journey.

But what if feeling stuck means nursery teaching might not be your forever fit?

First, acknowledge your feelings. 

It’s easy to brush aside frustration or doubt, but ignoring them won’t make them disappear.  Talk to a trusted colleague, write it down, or find a mentor who can understand your struggle. It’s okay to admit your struggles.

Second, reconnect with your passion.

Remember why you started! Was it the spark in a child’s eyes when they mastered a new skill? The joy of fostering curiosity? Take some time to revisit those reasons. If you can’t find any of it, don’t limit yourself to the nursery!

Third, refresh your inspiration. 

Step outside your classroom! Actually, observe a more experienced teacher, attend a workshop and training can bring you new ideas and perspectives! Give yourself a breath of fresh air. Maybe these will open new doors for yourself. 

Fourth, focus on small wins.

Break down goals into manageable chunks. Celebrate small successes, both yours and your students’.  Seeing progress, even in tiny steps, is a powerful motivator. This is not only about working in a nursery, but also in life. 

Fifth, take the next step if all of these doesn’t connect to you anymore.

Explore how you can leverage your skills and rediscover your passion for making a difference. 

Acknowledging your struggles, reconnecting with your passion, and seeking inspiration, you can reignite your creativity and find joy in the classroom again.  And most importantly, know that you’re not alone. There’s a whole community of nursery teachers who understand exactly what you’re going through. So, keep going, keep learning, and keep nurturing those little minds!

Feeling stuck doesn’t have to mean lost.  Here are some next steps:

  •  Schedule a free consultation to explore your options and discover a fulfilling career path that aligns with your passion for nurturing young minds.
  • Download our FREE Checklist: “Career Transition Checklist for Educators“. It’s packed with essential tasks to help you smoothly transition from the nursery to exciting opportunities outside the classroom. 
  • Follow our Instagram: We share engaging reels and carousel posts packed with tips and support for your nursery teaching transition journey.
  • Follow our Pinterest: For a dose of Affirmations for Teachers. We’ve got your back, every step of the way!