NQT advice - what next?

[ninah]

Am on a mat contract in a satisfactory school - only as we know there is no satisfactory any more! the teacher I am covering has been considering coming back part time - she has apparently now made her plans, and I am to find out what they are tomorrow. I really like aspects of the school but am struggling a bit in terms of developing my teaching there. School has been through lots of upheaval and is currently recruiting a permanent HT. A permanent contract would be very tempting, though, if available...
I looked round a fab school for a temp contract recently, too, the HT was lovely and said she'd strongly welcome an application. It is a tricky commute, and a temporary contract, but I'd expect some cracking peer input, I was really impressed with what I saw there. It might be for up to a year.
What should I be considering when future plans are discussed at my school? it's possible of course that the end of my contract will be confirmed, but if there are other options what should I be looking for? I would enjoy the life/work balance of part time, but would I be able to grow as a teacher? I am struggling to find time for my own family at present but I don't want to take an option just because it seems easier, short term.

[notnowImreading]

Primary or Secondary? If Secondary, which subject?

[ninah]

primary! am sweating now wondering what is on the table. I may be out of work in another month, eek!

[ninah]

Part time at my present school looks like it is a possibility. Is it sensible to take this workable option, or would you consider applying to a good school - dynamic SLT, enthusiastic teachers etc - with a challenging commute on a temporary contract?

[PopMusic]

If you were an NQT without a family, I would say go for the temporary contract. I think it's a bit more tricky with a family though. Are you the person who was having trouble with her TA? Would you still have the same TA? Your head seemed a bit ineffective but she's only temporary though.

Umm, tricky. You sound really enthusiastic about the temporary one. Why don't you go for it and see what happens?

[ninah]

If I didn't have dc, or even tbh if I had a partner, I wouldn't even be posting this dilemma, I'd be after the new job like a greyhound out of a trap.
I don't know the details of where I'd be teaching if I stayed but I don't see things improving for a while, and only then if dynamic leadership was brought in with all that entails.
On the other hand, (and thanks for the reply) your 3 day a week work life balance sounds very tempting!

[ninah]

oh, and yes I have applied so we'll see!

[zingally]

I think if you are young/free/single, temporary contracts are a good way to establish your career by experiencing different workplaces/methods/year groups. As well as widening your professional contacts.

However, I think with family in tow, permanent contracts can offer much more stability to family life.