"Don't be afraid to speak up and negotiate your terms."

Former Deputy Head and SENDCO Catherine left a role she loved when burnout, wearing too many hats, and increasing expectations became unsustainable. Despite her specialised knowledge and passion for the work, she found herself physically, emotionally, and socially exhausted - struggling to perform her multiple roles as effectively as she wanted to. 

After using the Academy's burnout recovery materials to heal and rebuild, Catherine embarked on a "squiggly journey" that included supply work, a remote Education Navigator role, redundancy, and ultimately a return to a school-based SENDCO position - but this time, completely on her own terms. Now working just two days in school and the rest from home, Catherine has reclaimed her boundaries whilst also venturing into consultancy work supporting families with special educational needs.

In this episode, we also talk about:

• If I’m not this then who am I? 
• The tipping point from passion to burnout
• Taking time to explore a meaningful exit
• Learning from others in the community 
• Navigating a non-linear career change path
• Setting boundaries and negotiating terms in a new role
• Returning to school - but with huge differences
• Recognising and resisting self-inflicted pressure
• Enjoying renewed energy for other aspects of life 
• Trusting your value and not being afraid to speak up
• Opening up opportunities by looking beyond role titles

If you're looking for step-by-step support to find and secure a new job or start your own business, check out the Adventures After Teaching Academy which will help you successfully leave the classroom! 

Looking for clarity & confidence around your decision to leave teaching plus ideas for what to do next? Our much-loved FREE Stay or Go? Workshop is back for 2026! Sign up here and we'll send it straight to your inbox on Saturday 4th April ✨