North England
From Classroom to Care: Menna’s Journey
After more than four years working in education, Menna knew what a difference a safe, nurturing environment could make to a child’s life. Having taught Humanities and Pastoral Care to secondary-aged students across both mainstream and special education, Menna had seen first-hand how much young people thrive when they’re given understanding, stability, and encouragement.
Her most memorable teaching experience came during her time in a Pupil Referral Unit (PRU), supporting children who had been removed from mainstream education. “That was a turning point for me,” she recalls. “It showed me how vital it is for children to have someone in their corner – someone who won’t give up on them.” When Menna became a mum, her priorities shifted, but her passion for supporting young people didn’t fade.
“Teaching has shown me how much children need stability and encouragement, especially those facing difficulties,” she says. “Fostering felt like a natural extension of that, a way to continue supporting young people beyond the classroom”.
Watching close friends go through adoption and then fostering inspired Menna and her family to leap into it. After months of reflection and discussion, they decided to open their home and hearts to children who needed them most.
Drawing on her teaching experience has been invaluable in her fostering journey. “Many children I taught had experienced trauma, neglect, or instability,” she explains. “That experience helped me approach fostering with empathy, patience, and a toolkit of strategies for building trust and resilience”.
Her background in child development has also shaped her approach to care. “I’m mindful of how learning and attachment are intertwined, and I try to create a home environment that encourages both.” When asked whether teachers make good foster carers, Menna’s answer is immediate:
“Yes. Teachers are trained to observe, adapt and support, often under pressure. They understand children’s emotional worlds and know how to build safe, structured environments. That’s a huge asset in fostering”.
For Menna, the rewards have been profound. “Fostering has brought purpose, connection, and growth. Each young person we’ve cared for has taught me something new about resilience and love,” she says.
She fondly remembers one young person who had difficulty remembering names. “They used to call all men ‘Dad’ and all women ‘Mum’. When they finally learned our names, they were so excited – they’d proudly introduce us to everyone, even people in cafés! It was such a special moment”.
Her daughter, too, has flourished through fostering. “She welcomes every child who joins our family, always eager to play and share. Watching her kindness grow has been one of the most beautiful parts of this journey”. For Menna, fostering is more than a role; it’s a continuation of her life’s purpose.
“Teaching helped me see the difference one consistent adult can make. Fostering lets me live that every day”.
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You can call us on 0800 566 8317 and we will be happy to answer any other questions you may have about fostering with Compass.
