“It had taken over my entire life.”

Associate Assistant Headteacher and Head of Geography, Victoria found her ‘4 day working week’ became a 50-60 hour commitment, frequently working 12 hours on a Sunday. Struggling with feelings of not wanting to let people down, she eventually gave herself permission to move on to a new adventure. 

Now the Deputy Director of an education charity, Victoria enjoys a varied role that leans into her relationship building skills and strategic expertise. She is loving the opportunity to have an impact at a high-level in the world of education, as well as re-connecting with friends, rediscovering the things she likes to do in her spare time, and no longer working weekends!

In this episode, we’re also chatting:

• Guilt around leaving and seeking “good enough” reasons
• Taking enough time for burnout recovery
• Feeling confused about next steps 
• Embracing a supportive, structured approach to career change
• Communicating the journey of past experience (including jobs before teaching!)
• The importance of making the phone call
• Positive interview experiences
• Partnerships roles and the power of networking
• Enjoying rest, connection, and fulfillment 

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! 

Thinking about leaving teaching? Sign up for our new free webinar 💛 Leaving teaching in 2026 for your roadmap to leaving the classroom next year - delivered straight to your inbox on 27th December.