At 82, Eric Jones has become one of Britain’s oldest teachers, returning to the profession two decades after his retirement in 2001. Prompted by the government’s call for retirees to assist amidst the pandemic, he now imparts knowledge in secondary schools in Gloucestershire and Worcestershire. Refusing to slow down, Eric expresses his love for teaching, finding joy in the daily interactions with his students.
Teaching religious education and English to over 4,000 children since the 1960s, Eric retired at 61 and moved to Evesham with his wife, hoping for a peaceful retirement. However, the opportunity to contribute again to education proved irresistible, and now he dedicates two days a week to teaching various subjects in the two counties.
The pandemic prompted the government to request retired teachers to return to address staff shortages and help students catch up. Taking up this call, Eric now teaches one or two days per week, finding fulfillment in continuing his life’s work. Despite his age, he remains dedicated, remarking on the joy of witnessing young minds absorbing knowledge. The only modern challenge he observes is the distraction posed by mobile phones in the classroom.
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Embracing his unique position as a teacher in his 80s, Eric acknowledges the surprise of others and jokes about being the oldest in the profession. His determination to continue until he can no longer stands firm, as he feels no need to retire anytime soon.