A new analysis of DfE figures shows that the fastest-growing group of new teachers isn't people in their 20s or 30s, it is people in their 50s.
Over the past two years, the number of trainees aged 50 and over has risen by 67%.
Lucy Kellaway spoke to Times Radio about what sets later-life career changers apart from young graduates, from their real-world experience to their confidence in talking to parents, and why so many feel inspired to enter the classroom later in life.
"We're not necessarily better than young teachers, but we're different. That diversity really has to be precious."