Ali Campbell, Northern Ireland
Ali Campbell, originally from Northern Ireland has been living and working in the Isle of Man for two years. As a secondary school teacher, Ali has been thriving and rediscovering her love for teaching English.
Hi Ali! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with us. Let’s jump right in. Can you tell us how you ended up in the Isle of Man?
I was working in England and was really looking for a change in lifestyle. I saw an advert on Facebook about teaching on the Island and it seemed the perfect fit. Two years later and the rest, as they say, is history.
I love that a facebook advert changed your life!
I know! I clicked on the advert and it took me to a page that had information about teacher recruitment, the secondary schools on the Island and the jobs available.
How was the move over?
My experience of moving to the Island was very positive and actually quite seamless. I was guided through the whole process by HR at my new school, Ballakermeen. I received a generous relocation package that included support with my moving costs and housing assistance for the first two years.
Two years later, are you still enjoying the work?
I love my job. It’s really varied and interesting. No two days are the same and it keeps me on my toes. In my view, teenagers are often underestimated in society. It’s a privilege to work with the upcoming generation.
Do you feel there is career progression for you on the Isle of Man?
Yes. There is a lot of scope to progress within the education sector on the Island. It’s really dynamic and there are lots of exciting opportunities.
How do you find teaching in the Isle of Man to differ from teaching in England?
In England, I was constantly overwhelmed with administration and paperwork. I was chronically overworked and couldn’t keep all of the plates spinning. Moving here has reinvigorated the passion I have for my job and I couldn’t be happier. I have much more “life” than I did when doing the same job in England. As a result I am able to put my energies into what’s important- teaching quality lessons and supporting the young people in my care.
That is amazing!
I’m very happy here and I’m currently in the process of buying my own apartment. It’s my plan to stay here long term.
Congratulations! So I guess it’s safe to say you like it here!
Oh, absolutely. Living on the Isle of Man has had given me many opportunities. I spend much more time outdoors, which has given me a quality of life I just didn’t have before.
Ali, we know you’re pretty active in the community. Can you tell us a bit about the groups you’re involved with?
The size of the Island means that there’s a real opportunity to create positive change. There’s a real sense of community on the Island and I’ve had the opportunity to help create ‘Women of Mann’; a grassroots organisation focused on issues affecting women on the Island. I’ve also been working in collaboration with other women to tackle the issue of period poverty.
Can you tell us what you think the Isle of Man’s best kept secret is?
I would say that the best-kept secret on the Isle of Man is all the hidden coves and caves around the coast. Getting out on the water will completely transform how you see the Island. It’s truly magical.
We couldn’t agree more. What are some of your favourite things to do here?
For those who haven’t been to the Isle of Man, I think it’s surprising to find out just how much there is to do. No matter what your passion or interest, there is something for you here. Manx LitFest is a personal favourite and I’ve recently been to an outdoor performance of Shakespeare at Peel Castle.
What would you say to someone considering a move to the Island?
The Isle of Man will enable you to create a new lifestyle for yourself. There is no other place like it. I can’t recommend it enough and would strongly suggest that people take the opportunity to move here. You definitely won’t regret it. I would advise to get involved in the wide variety of activities on offer. Put yourself out there, get to know people, take the chance to share your skills or learn something new. The Island will become your home in the blink of an eye!
The Isle of Man is a unique place to work and live. It’s really hard to capture just how wonderful the Island is. It’s full of opportunities and experiences that are just there for the taking. The best way to truly appreciate it is to come and see for yourself.
Ali, thank you so much for taking the time to talk with us and share your story. If you’re ready to jump into Island life, contact a member of our team today.
