In today's episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with Ruth O’Neill, an educator who spent over 20 years in the classroom before stepping into a new role as a SEND consultant and English tutor. Ruth’s journey took her from teaching in the UK to classrooms in Cairo and Costa Rica, before returning home to take on a challenging SENCO role. Over time, the pressures of the role, increasing workload, and systemic challenges pushed her to breaking point.

Ruth opens up about the realities of working in SEND, the emotional and professional toll of the job, and how she ultimately found a new, fulfilling way to use her expertise outside of traditional education. 

Now, she supports families navigating the SEND system, helps children access the right support, and provides English tuition—all on her own terms.

If you’ve ever wondered what life after teaching could look like, or if you’re a SENCO questioning your next steps, this episode is for you.

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