Thanks Roz.
I agree that ageism is such a significant factor in all this - we all know it's very unlikely for a 68 year old to be allowed to continue teaching primary school children, even if they really wanted to.

It requires a great deal of stamina.

My students are coping with range of disabilities and mental health issues. It's rewarding work but also very draining due to the extra support they need. I'm not claiming to be some kind of saint - I chose to do this but there is already a high drop-out rate from teaching courses once students realise how difficult it is and a bit of respect for what they do makes all the difference.

I'm not sure I'd have the energy to do this past the age of 60 in the unlikely event there will still be work for me available then!